The “Award of Scholarships to Young Artists in Different Cultural Fields” is introduced by the Ministry of Culture, Indian Government. This scheme is very good for Young artists. This supports young artists of exceptional promise in pursuing advanced training in fields such as Indian Classical Music, Dance, Theatre, Visual Arts, and other indigenous art forms.
Fields Eligible for Scholarships
- Indian Classical Music :Hindustani and Carnatic (Vocal & Instrumental).
- Indian Classical Dance : Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, Odissi, Manipuri, Mohiniattam, Sattriya, and Chhau.
- Theatre & Mime : Acting, direction, and specialized theatre art (excluding playwriting/research).
- Visual Arts :Graphics, sculpture, painting, photography, pottery, and ceramics.
- Folk, Traditional, and Indigenous Arts :Puppetry, folk theatre, songs, and music.
- Light Classical Music :Thumri, Dadra, Tappa, Ghazal, Qawwali, Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Geeti, and Atulprasad.
Terms of Scholarship
- Total Scholarships: 400 scholarships awarded annually.
- Duration: 2 years.
- Amount: ₹5,000 per month to cover living expenses, travel, books, and training fees.
- Training: Advanced-level training under a recognized Guru or institution. Scholars must commit to three hours daily practice and acquire knowledge of their field and related disciplines.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- Education: Adequate general education to pursue advanced training.
- Age Limit: 18 to 25 years (as of April 1 of the application year). No relaxation in age is allowed.
- Experience:
- Minimum 5 years of training with a Guru or recognized institute.
- Certificate(s) of training signed by current and former Gurus/Institutes must be submitted.
- Proficiency: Demonstrated talent and a basic degree of proficiency in the chosen field.
Benefits
- Financial Assistance: ₹5,000 per month for 2 years.
- Advanced Training: Focused on rigorous skill enhancement under renowned Gurus or at reputed institutions.
- Recognition: Opportunity to establish a foundation in the field of art and culture.
Application Process
Mode: Online
- Visit the CSMS Portal available on the websites of the Ministry of Culture and CCRT.
- Register by filling out the required details and receive a username and password.
- Log in and complete the application form.
- Upload mandatory documents.
- Submit the application online.
Selection Process
- Screening: Initial scrutiny of applications through NIC software on the CSMS Portal.
- Interview/Test:
- Shortlisted candidates will attend an interview/performance before an Expert Committee constituted by the Ministry of Culture.
- Selection is based on merit, performance, and potential.
- Venue, date, and time of the interview/test will be communicated via email.
- Final Selection:
- Recommended candidates’ list is sent for approval to the Ministry of Culture.
- Selected candidates receive an award letter and their names are published on the CCRT and Ministry websites.
Documents Required
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar, Passport, or equivalent.
- Educational Qualifications: Self-attested copies of certificates/diplomas.
- Age Proof: Matriculation certificate or equivalent.
- Training Certificates: Minimum 5 years of training, verified by current and former Gurus/Institutions.
- Caste Certificate: If applicable.
- Photograph: Passport-size photo.
- Bank Details: For scholarship disbursal.
- Special Fields: Visual arts applicants must include self-attested photos of original works.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the purpose of the scheme?
To support young Indian artists for advanced training in cultural fields.
2. How much financial assistance is provided?
₹5,000 per month for a duration of two years.
3. What is the total number of scholarships?
400 scholarships are awarded annually.
4. Who is eligible for the scholarship?
Indian citizens aged 18–25 with a minimum of 5 years of prior training in their chosen field.
5. How can I apply?
Through the online CSMS Portal on the websites of the Ministry of Culture and CCRT.
6. What is the selection process?
Applications are screened, and shortlisted candidates attend an interview/test before an Expert Committee.
7. Can I apply for more than one field?
Yes, but you must submit a separate online application for each field.
8. Is there an age relaxation for candidates?
No, the age limit is strictly 18 to 25 years.
Contact Details
- Ministry of Culture:
- Section Officer (S&F Section)
Room No. 211, Puratatva Bhawan, D Block, GPO Complex, INA, New Delhi – 110023
Phone: 011-24642157 | Email: scholar-culture @nic.in
- Section Officer (S&F Section)
- Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT):
- 15-A, Sector-7, Dwarka, New Delhi – 110075
- Phone: 011-25309300 ext. 319, 331, 337, 338
- Email: dir.ccrt@ nic.in