Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat

Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat,” meaning “One India, Best India,” is an initiative by the Government of India to promote cultural integration and mutual understanding among states and union territories.

Background

Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat was announced by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 31st October, 2015 on the occasion of the 140th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Subsequently, the Finance Minister announced the initiative in his Budget Speech for 2016-17. Through this innovative measure, the knowledge of the culture, traditions and practices of different states & UTs will lead to an enhanced understanding and bonding between the states, thereby strengthening the unity and integrity of India. The Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat programme, aims to actively enhance interaction between people of diverse cultures living in different States and UTs in India, with the objective of promoting greater mutual understanding amongst them. As per the programme, each year, every State/UT would be paired with another State/UT in India for reciprocal interaction between the people. It is envisaged through this exchange, that the knowledge of the language, culture, traditions and practices of different states will lead to an enhanced understanding and bonding between one another, thereby strengthening the unity and integrity of India.

Objectives

• To celebrate the unity in diversity of our nation and to maintain and strengthen the fabric of
traditionally existing emotional bonds between the people of our country;
• To promote the spirit of national integration through a deep and structured engagement
between all states and union territories through a year-long planned engagement between states;
• To showcase the rich heritage and culture, customs and traditions of either state for enabling
people to understand and appreciate the diversity that is India, thus fostering a sense of common
identity.