The “Lokprasar Prakalpo Scheme” was launched in 2014 by the Department of Information & Cultural Affairs, Government of West Bengal, with the aim of reviving and preserving the folk and tribal culture of Bengal. The scheme focuses on financially supporting rural folk artists while simultaneously promoting their art forms across various districts. It aims to provide dignity, recognition, and economic opportunities to folk artists, ensuring the preservation of Bengal’s rich cultural heritage.
Objectives
- Recognition: To provide dignity to folk artists by issuing identity cards.
- Preservation: To uphold and revive the traditional folk art forms of Bengal.
- Revival: To support endangered and nearly extinct folk forms.
- Socio-economic upliftment: To improve the economic conditions of folk artists by engaging them in various government programs and performances.
Benefits
- Identity Cards: Issued to all recognized folk artists.
- Pension:
- ₹1,000 per month for veteran and distressed folk artists aged 60 years and above.
- Retainer Fee:
- Artists under 60 years of age receive a monthly retainer fee of ₹1,000 if engaged in publicity campaigns for government programs.
- Engagement Opportunities:
- Artists are engaged in publicity campaigns for government initiatives like Kanyashree, Yuvashree, Nirmal Bangla, and Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan.
- Performance Fee:
- Artists earn ₹1,000 per day per head for performing their respective folk genres at government programs, fairs, and festivals.
- Upliftment Programs: The state government arranges alternative income sources by involving artists in developmental campaigns and public performances.
Eligibility
- Artistic Lineage: Applicants should belong to a family practicing traditional folk art, a tribal cultural/dance team, or must be a folk-based instrumentalist recognized by the Folk & Tribal Cultural Centre.
- Age:
- 18 to 60 years for retainer fees and performance engagements.
- 60+ years for a pension.
- Residency: Must be a resident of West Bengal.
Application Process
Offline Process:
- Contact Department: Applicants need to visit their District Information & Cultural Affairs Department.
- Notifications: Stay updated with notifications published in vernacular newspapers by the department regarding artist enlistment and auditions.
- Submit Application: Apply in the prescribed format and participate in auditions for selection.
- Verification: After successful verification, eligible applicants can avail of the scheme’s benefits.
Documents Required
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or equivalent.
- Address Proof: Document proving residency in West Bengal.
- Passport-Sized Photographs.
- Bank Details: Front page of the passbook or bank account details.
- Certificates: Proof of achievements or honors received (if applicable).
- Any additional documents requested by the department.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the objective of the scheme?
The scheme aims to support financially distressed folk artists, revive endangered folk art forms, and preserve Bengal’s cultural heritage. - Which department launched the scheme?
The Department of Information & Cultural Affairs, Government of West Bengal. - Who is eligible under this scheme?
Folk artists aged 18+ who are residents of West Bengal and practice traditional or tribal art forms. - Is this scheme available to non-residents of West Bengal?
No, it is exclusively for residents of West Bengal. - Will identity cards be issued to all folk artists?
Yes, every enlisted folk artist will receive an identity card. - What are the pension benefits?
Eligible folk artists aged 60+ years will receive a monthly pension of ₹1,000. - What is the performance fee for government programs?
Artists earn ₹1,000 per day per head for performances at government programs. - How can I apply for the scheme?
Contact the District Information & Cultural Affairs Department and follow the steps outlined for enrollment and verification.