Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights at the 46^th Session of the Human Rights Council (22 February – 23 March 2021), delivered by Mr. Pawankumar Badhe First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India,

[Geneva, 03 March 2021]

Madam President, 

My delegation thanks the Special Rapporteur for the presentation of the report.

2. While Arts and Culture became the expression of resilience of the society during the pandemic, it has posed formidable challenges for artists and performers, especially the small and unorganized ones. The economic crisis accompanying the pandemic has had disproportionate effects on cultural sectors and those who work in them. While several practitioners in cultural sector have moved online to showcase their creative work virtually, it has not been an easy task. Apart from learning new platforms and modifying their skills to go digital, artists, now, also have to address how to reduce piracy, while using virtual platforms.

3. In addition to the financial stimulus provided by the Govt of India to support MSMEs, targeted efforts to protect artisans, craftsmen and practitioners of arts and culture from the impacts of the pandemic have been made. Our Ministry of Culture has taken intensive efforts to provide alternative and additional services through digital platforms along with proper documentations for the events which were cancelled or postponed due to the pandemic. The Govt modified its existing schemes to support artists and organizations so that they avail benefits under the schemes even if they are not able to stage programs in physical format and thus ensuring continued financial assistance to tide over the present crisis.

Madam President,

4. The right to science is essential for the enjoyment of many other human rights, including the right to the highest attainable standard of health. In this context, equitable access to the Covid-19 vaccine is crucial for realization of the right to health of every individual. Under our initiative Vaccine Maitri, which translates into Vaccine Friendship, India is providing vaccines to the world. We are a significant source of supply to the COVAX facility. In addition, India is also directly sending vaccines to friends and partners. Indian vaccines have so far been supplied to over 74 countries under our Vaccine Maitri initiative. 

I thank you, Madam President.

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