National Mission on Cultural Mapping

The National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM) seeks to document and promote India’s cultural heritage, especially rural traditions like Thongjao’s pottery. Influenced by master craftswoman Neelamani Devi, Thongjao artisans create both functional and decorative items. A key initiative under NMCM is Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD), which has mapped cultural practices in over 4.5 lakh of India’s 6.5 lakh villages. The mission fosters economic opportunities for artisans while preserving cultural identities. Other culturally recognized villages include Shani Shingnapur (Maharashtra) and Khonoma (Nagaland). NMCM underscores the link between cultural heritage and sustainable development.