Why in the News?

The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism has provided information about the Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) in Lok Sabha.

About Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs):

About	• Set up by the Ministry of Culture to promote and preserve cultural heritage. • Established in 1985, with operations beginning in 1986-87. • Seven ZCCs located in Patiala, Nagpur, Udaipur, Prayagraj, Kolkata, Dimapur, and Thanjavur.
Aims and Objectives	• Preserving and promoting *regional folk, tribal,* and *traditional arts.* • Enhancing and celebrating India’s cultural diversity. • Encouraging folk & tribal arts and promoting cultural education. • Involving youth in creative cultural programs. • Strengthening linkages between different regions of India to showcase their contribution to Indian culture.
Implementation and Structural Mandate	• Government allocated Rs. 10 crore to each ZCC during the 7th and 10th Plans. • Free land provided by state governments for ZCC headquarters. • Organizes Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav (RSM) and regional festivals to promote cultural engagement. • 42 regional festivals organized annually, 14 RSMs since 2015.
Significance	• Strengthens cultural unity across India and preserves regional cultures. • Provides platforms for youth to engage in cultural activities. • Promotes national integration through events bringing together artists from different regions. • Contributes to economic development through tourism and employment.

[2013] Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?

1. National Development Council

2. Planning Commission

3. Zonal Councils

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3