The Bihar government has officially commenced the implementation of a significant welfare scheme aimed at supporting the state's veteran artists. Under the newly launched 'Mukhyamantri Kalakar Pension Yojana', selected artists will receive a monthly financial pension of Rs 3,000. This initiative is designed to provide economic stability to senior and financially vulnerable artists who have dedicated their lives to preserving Bihar's cultural heritage.
Eligibility and Selection Process for the Artist Pension
According to Art and Culture Department Secretary Pranav Kumar, the selection process is currently active. The department has already finalized a list of 85 beneficiaries, with more names to be added as the process continues. To qualify for the pension, artists must meet specific criteria set by the state government.
Applicants must be residents of Bihar and possess over ten years of experience in practicing a traditional art form. Furthermore, the scheme targets those in economic need, with an eligibility cap where the artist's annual income should not exceed Rs 1.2 lakh. This targeted approach ensures the support reaches those who need it most.
Parallel Initiatives for Art Preservation and Promotion
Alongside the pension scheme, the department is rolling out complementary programs to safeguard Bihar's artistic legacy. Secretary Kumar highlighted the 'Mukhyamantri Guru-Shishya Parampara Yojana', a scheme focused on reviving rare and nearly extinct art forms.
Under this program, specialized centers will be established in major cities across Bihar. Here, experienced masters, or Gurus, will be appointed along with accompanists to train selected students. The government will provide a monthly salary of Rs 15,000 to the teachers and a scholarship of Rs 3,000 to each student, creating a sustainable ecosystem for knowledge transfer.
Boosting Filmmaking in Bihar
The Art and Culture Department is also actively promoting Bihar as a prime destination for filmmakers. Kumar emphasized the state's significant potential, citing its scenic locations and adequate infrastructure as major attractions for directors.
The existing film promotion policy offers financial grants and various incentives for producing films, documentaries, and serials, with special emphasis on content in regional languages. The policy has already borne fruit, with the department granting approvals for the shooting of 35 films and documentaries in the state. The government is actively inviting filmmakers to explore Bihar's rich cultural tapestry and diverse landscapes for their projects.
This multi-pronged strategy—combining direct financial aid for artists, structured programs for art preservation, and incentives for creative industries—demonstrates the Bihar government's comprehensive approach to nurturing and promoting its unique cultural identity.
