The Central Government has undertaken a number of different schemes to encourage art, culture, artists and cultural workers as well as various cultural associations across the nation. Prahlad Singh Patel, Minister of Culture and Tourism, provided the information of various such schemes, in response to MP Mahesh Poddar’s question in Rajya Sabha.

The Minister informed that the cultural ministry is working on the National Mission on Cultural Mapping to prepare a nationwide database on the artists and facilities present in the cultural ministry, other associated ministries as well as the cultural associations present in the states. Currently the data available on various artists is being standardized and formatted so as to provide them with a reliable, IT-enabled platform for better exposure.

Cultural ministry has many schemes functioning to recognize future potential and provide facilities to budding artists on a standard basis. These schemes are working to nurture these artists as well as provide hand-held support and training. All across the nation various plans; through scholarships, fellowships, pension and grant/financial assistance, are providing aid and necessary facilities to these artists.

Financial assistance in the form of various components like repertory grants, monetary aid to cultural institution of national significance, Cultural Function and Production Grant (CFPG), financial assistance in for the preservation and development of Cultural Heritage of the Himalayas and the development of Buddhist/Tibetan Arts and culture, is being provided through the various schemes.

Schemes for Financial assistance for creation of Cultural Infrastructure include monetary assistance for Building Grants including Studio Theatres, assistance for allied cultural activities as well as financial assistance for Tagore Cultural Complexes.