The “Financial Assistance for Cultural Activities in Performing Arts for Building Grants Including Studio Theatres” is a scheme initiated by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. It aims to provide support to voluntary cultural organizations and government-aided cultural institutions to develop training, rehearsal, and performance spaces for artists.
Objectives
- To support the creation and renovation of cultural spaces such as auditoriums, studio theatres, rehearsal halls, and training centers.
- To encourage artistic activities by providing properly equipped infrastructure for performing arts.
- To promote regional and national cultural development through better facilities for artists.
Benefits
- Maximum Assistance Based on Project Type:
Cities Type of Project Maximum Assistance Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, etc. New construction or purchase of space ₹50 lakhs Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, etc. All other projects ₹25 lakhs Non-Metro Cities All projects ₹25 lakhs - Percentage of Funding:
- Metro Cities: 60% of the approved project cost.
- North Eastern Region (NER): 90% of the approved project cost.
- Nature of Grant: All grants are non-recurring. Recurring expenditures will be the organization’s responsibility.
Eligibility
Eligible Projects:
- Conventional Cultural Spaces:
- Auditoriums, concert halls, open-air theatres, etc.
- Rehearsal and training centers for theatre, music, and dance.
- Flexible Studio Theatres:
- Small, non-proscenium spaces with flexible seating for 100–200 spectators.
- Includes green rooms, dressing rooms, and storage areas.
- Types of Proposals:
- New construction or purchase of built-up space.
- Renovation or modernization of existing facilities.
- Provision of equipment like light and sound systems, musical instruments, costumes, etc.
Eligible Organizations:
- Cultural Organizations:
- Must be registered under the Societies Registration Act (1860) or equivalent.
- Must have a history of working in the promotion of arts and culture for at least three years.
- Government-Sponsored Bodies, Universities, and Colleges:
- Dedicated to performing arts and with satisfactory performance records for the preceding three years.
- Special Conditions:
- Organizations with prior grants must complete earlier projects before applying for new ones.
Exclusions
- Religious institutions, public libraries, museums, and general schools or colleges not dedicated to the performing arts are ineligible.
- Departments of Central/State Governments or Local Bodies are not eligible.
Application Process
Mode: Offline
- Download the application form from the Ministry of Culture website: www.indiaculture.nic.in.
- Submit completed forms with necessary enclosures to:
The Director, West Zone Cultural Centre (WZCC)
Bagore Ki Haveli, Gaughat, Udaipur, Rajasthan – 313001- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 011-24642148
- Clearly label the envelope: “Application under the Scheme of Building Grants, including Studio Theatres”.
Documents Required
- Project Proposal: Description, cost estimates, funding sources, timeline, and maintenance plans.
- Certificate of Registration under applicable Acts.
- Memorandum of Association/Trust Deed.
- List of Board of Management Members.
- Annual Accounts for the last three years (certified by CA or auditor).
- Title Deed showing ownership of land/building.
- Cost Estimates approved by a registered architect.
- Evidence of the organization’s matching share (bank statements, expenditure certificates, etc.).
- Bond and Authorization Letter in prescribed formats.
Evaluation Process
- Applications are scrutinized by the West Zone Cultural Centre (WZCC).
- An Expert Committee, including artists, architects, engineers, and ministry officials, evaluates the projects.
- Recommendations are approved by the Hon’ble Minister of Culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What is the purpose of this scheme?
The scheme helps in the creation, renovation, and equipping of cultural spaces for performing arts.
2. How much grant is available?
The amount of grant is project-wise and location-wise; it is ₹50 lakhs for metro cities and ₹25 lakhs for non-metro areas.
3. Are universities and colleges eligible?
Yes, if they are devoted to the performing arts and fulfill the eligibility criteria.
4. How long does an organization have to complete the project?
The project must be completed within three years of receiving the first installment.
5. Can organizations that previously received grants apply again?
Yes, but only if the earlier project is completed and all conditions are fulfilled.
6. Where can I find the application form?
The application form is available on the Ministry of Culture website and the WZCC website.
7. What happens if an organization violates the grant conditions?
The organization must refund the full amount with interest.