Indian Economy News

Global Engagement Scheme to promote Indian Art and Culture

The Ministry of Culture has launched the Global Engagement Scheme to promote India’s rich cultural heritage and enhance its global image. The initiative aims to strengthen cultural ties with foreign nations, foster bilateral cultural contacts, and boost inbound tourism. Administered through Indian Missions abroad, the scheme comprises key components like the Festival of India, which provides Indian artists an opportunity to perform on international platforms across diverse cultural fields such as folk art, classical music, traditional dance, and theatre. 

Additionally, the scheme offers grant-in-aid to Indo-Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies to promote friendship and cultural exchange. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) is pivotal in promoting Indian culture through yoga, dance, music, language classes, exhibitions, and international conferences. The Ministry of Culture has empanelled 627 artists and groups, with performance fees set at Rs. 35,000 (US$ 403.31) for the lead artist and Rs. 7,000 (US$ 80.66) for accompanying artists. Furthermore, the Financial Assistance for Veteran Artists Scheme provides up to Rs. 6,000 (US$ 69.14) per month to support elderly and economically disadvantaged artists aged 60 and above. This initiative was announced by the Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in the Lok Sabha. 

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.