Which Indian city has been added to the list of UNESCO's Creative Cities Network (U.C.C.N) in the 'City of Literature' category in 2023?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

UKPSC Combined Upper PCS (Prelims) Exam (General Studies) Official Paper-I (Held On: 14 Jul, 2024)

Answer 1

The correct answer is option 3.

Key Points

Kozhikode: India's First UNESCO 'City of Literature':

Designation Date: October 31, 2023, on World Cities Day
Official Declaration: June 23, 2024
Significance: Kozhikode became the first Indian city to receive this prestigious title, recognizing its rich literary heritage and vibrant cultural scene.
Why Kozhikode?
- Literary Infrastructure:
  - Home to over 70 publishing houses, producing 400–500 books annually
  - Hosts 545 libraries, serving tens of thousands of members
- Cultural Contributions:
  - Hosts major literary events like the Kerala Literature Festival
  - Birthplace of renowned Malayalam writers such as S.K. Pottekkatt, Thikkodiyan, and P. Valsala
- Community Engagement:
  - Active participation in literary activities and a strong reading culture among residents
  - Recognition through awards like the P.A. Lalitha Award, S.K. Pottekkatt Literature Award, and Mathrubhumi Literary Award

Additional Information

UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN):

Established: 2004
Objective: Promote cooperation among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development
Creative Fields: Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, and Music