India signed the first ever 'Cultural Property Agreement' to prevent and curb illicit trafficking of antiquities from India, in 2024, with which country ?

The correct answer is USA.

Key Points

• India signed its first-ever 'Cultural Property Agreement' with the USA in 2024.
• The agreement aims to prevent and curb illicit trafficking of antiquities and cultural artifacts from India.
• This historic agreement was signed under the framework of the US Cultural Property Implementation Act (CPIA), which enables bilateral agreements to protect cultural heritage.
• The agreement strengthens cooperation between India and the USA on safeguarding historical artifacts and addressing cultural heritage crimes.
• It is expected to bolster India's efforts to preserve its rich cultural heritage and ensure the return of stolen artifacts.

Additional Information

• Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Artifacts
  • It refers to the illegal trade, theft, or smuggling of cultural properties and antiquities.
  • Such activities often lead to loss of cultural heritage and historical identity for affected nations.
  • International organizations like UNESCO and INTERPOL play a significant role in combating illicit trafficking.
• US Cultural Property Implementation Act (CPIA)
  • The CPIA, enacted in 1983, allows the US to enter into agreements with other nations to protect cultural properties.
  • Under this act, the US imposes import restrictions on cultural artifacts from countries with which it has agreements.
  • It seeks to prevent the illegal import and sale of stolen cultural artifacts.
• UNESCO Convention 1970
  • The Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export, and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property was adopted in 1970.
  • It provides a framework for international cooperation to combat the illicit trade of cultural objects.
  • India and the USA are signatories to this convention.
• India's Efforts in Protecting Cultural Heritage
  • India has been actively working to recover stolen artifacts through bilateral and multilateral agreements.
  • Several prominent artifacts, including the Nataraja idol, have been successfully returned to India in recent years.
  • The government has also strengthened domestic laws, such as the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972, to regulate artifact trade.