upsc gs pt pickups | pt pointers

Kaavi Art Goa showcased Kaavi Art through its tableau during the Republic Day Parade on 26 January 2025. It is a traditional mural art form associated with the Konkan region, especially old temples and sacred structures in Goa. Kaavi Art is known for its distinctive reddish appearance created from natural laterite soil. The craft reflects the cultural, religious and architectural traditions of the Konkan region and remains closely linked with heritage temple structures.

Dokra Artwork

Dokra Artwork During his visit to France from 10–12 February 2025, India’s Prime Minister gifted Dokra Art pieces to the French President. Dokra is a traditional bell-metal craft practised by tribal and artisan communities in different parts of India. The craft is known for its rustic metal finish, handmade appearance and use of the ancient lost-wax casting method. It reflects one of India’s oldest continuing metal-craft traditions. Aspect Detai

Etikoppaka Toy Craft

Etikoppaka Toy Craft Eco-friendly toys from Andhra Pradesh were showcased in the Republic Day Parade on 26 January 2025. Etikoppaka toys are traditional toys made by artisans of Etikoppaka village, located on the banks of the Varaha River in Visakhapatnam district. The craft is known for its use of soft wood, natural dyes and the lacquer-turning technique, giving the toys a smooth, glossy and eco-friendly finish. Aspect Details Origin Etikoppaka t

Terracotta Craft Village of Assam

Terracotta Craft Village of Assam In the 2026 Republic Day Parade, Assam’s tableau showcased Asharikandi’s terracotta heritage. Asharikandi, located in the Dhubri district of Assam, is one of India’s largest and famous clusters for terracotta and pottery. The craft tradition reflects Assam’s rural artisan culture and long-standing clay-based heritage. The village is especially known for handcrafted terracotta figures and pottery made using locally available cl

New GI Logo Recognition for Kashmir Carpets

New GI Logo Recognition for Kashmir Carpets On 7 February 2025, the Kashmir hand-knotted carpet “Kal baffi” received a new GI logo from the Geographical Indications Registry, Chennai. This strengthens the authenticity and market identity of Kashmir’s traditional carpet craft. Kashmir carpets are globally known for their intricate hand-knotting, Persian influence and premium craftsmanship using wool and silk. The GI recognition further enhances the protection and bra

Thanjavur Painting

Thanjavur Painting On 23 December 2025, the Department of Posts successfully transported a priceless Thanjavur art of Lord Shri Ram from Spain to India. Thanjavur painting is a classical South Indian art form known for devotional themes, gold foil work and decorative richness. The art form reflects temple-linked devotion, royal patronage and ornamental craftsmanship, with paintings usually centred on Hindu deities and sacred stories. Aspect Details Or

Daruma Doll

Daruma Doll During his visit to Japan, PM Narendra Modi received a Daruma Doll from the chief priest of Shorinzan Daruma Temple. The Daruma is a traditional Japanese wish doll and a symbol of perseverance and resilience. The Daruma reflects the spirit of determination and recovery after setbacks. It also represents a strong cultural and spiritual connection between India, Buddhism and Japanese Zen traditions. Aspect Details Description The Daruma

Lucknow: “UNESCO City of Gastronomy”

Lucknow: “UNESCO City of Gastronomy” Lucknow was designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy on 31 October 2025 for its rich, historic Awadhi cuisine, vibrant food culture and sustainable culinary practices. The recognition places Lucknow within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, highlighting the role of food traditions, culinary heritage and creativity in sustainable urban development. Aspect Details UNESCO Recognition Lucknow re

Maratha Military Landscapes Added to UNESCO World Heritage List

Maratha Military Landscapes Added to UNESCO World Heritage List On 11 July 2025, at the 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee, the Maratha Military Landscapes of India were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This became India’s 44th World Heritage Site, following the 2024 inscription of the Moidams of the Ahom Dynasty. India now ranks sixth globally and second in the Asia-Pacific region for the number of World Heritage Sites. Aspect Details