The Indian Ministry of Culture has launched a comprehensive initiative designed to safeguard the interests of artists working across various genres, such as folk singers. Named the ‘Scheme of Scholarship and Fellowship for Promotion of Art and Culture’, the project consists of three key components. Each component targets specific demographics within the artistic community, including emerging artists, established cultural influencers, and individuals undertaking cultural research.
Understanding the Components of the Scheme
The scheme is divided into three main parts which are dedicated to different sections of the artist population. The details of these components are as follows:
Award of Scholarships to Young Artists in Different Cultural Fields (SYA)
The first part of this scheme is focused on supporting young artists aged between 18 to 25 years. Successful applicants receive a scholarship for a period of 2 years. However, as a prerequisite for eligibility, artists must have undergone training under a Guru or Institution for at least 5 years.
Award of Senior/Junior Fellowships
The second part of the scheme awards Senior and Junior Fellowships. The Senior Fellowship is available to candidates aged 40 years or older and lasts for 2 years. The purpose of this fellowship is to encourage cultural research. Simultaneously, the Junior Fellowship targets artists aged between 25 to 40 years and also lasts for 2 years. In a single batch year, up to 400 Senior and Junior Fellowships are awarded.
Award of Tagore National Fellowship for Cultural Research (TNFCR)
The third component of the scheme is the Tagore National Fellowship for Cultural Research. The selection process for this component is split into two categories: the Tagore National Fellowship and the Tagore Research Scholarship. Successful applicants will be affiliated with varying institutions falling under four groups to conduct their cultural research. The selection of Fellows and Scholars is executed by the National Selection Committee (NSC).
Additional Component: Project Grants for Individuals Researching Performing Arts
The scheme also includes an additional component known as “Project Grants to Individuals for Research in the Performing Arts”. Under this part of the scheme, the Sangeet Natak Akademi offers financial support to individuals based on the recommendations of the Advisory Committee.
The ‘Scheme of Scholarship and Fellowship for Promotion of Art and Culture’ fosters a nurturing environment for artists at various stages of their careers. By providing financial and institutional support for artistic pursuits, the scheme strengthens the cultural fabric of the nation. Source: PIB.