The “Financial Assistance for Promotion of Guru-Shishya Parampara (Repertory Grant)” scheme, launched by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, aims to support performing arts organizations, promote traditional art forms, and sustain the ancient Guru-Shishya tradition. It provides financial assistance to dramatic groups, theater groups, music ensembles, and children’s theater organizations.
Scheme Benefits
- For Guru/Director:
- ₹15,000/- per month.
- For Shishya/Artists:
- Adult Artists (18 years and above): ₹10,000/- per month.
- Category A (12 to 18 years): ₹7,500/- per month.
- Category B (6 to 12 years): ₹3,500/- per month.
- Category C (3 to 6 years): ₹2,000/- per month.
- Other Benefits:
- Grants are released via Electronic Payment/RTGS.
- Periodical inspections and physical verifications ensure accountability.
Eligibility Criteria
- Organizations:
- Dramatic groups, theater groups, music ensembles, and children’s theater organizations.
- Organizations must have performed on an all-India basis and possess a repertoire of adequate quality.
- Other Conditions:
- Organizations can avail only one grant per financial year.
- Financial assistance is reviewed annually by an Expert Committee.
- Mandatory Requirements:
- Physical verification is required every four years.
- Organizations must stage at least two productions annually, with at least one new production.
- Cultural Activities:
- Organizations must organize at least two cultural activities (e.g., functions, lectures, seminars) in schools and provide a certificate from the school principal for grant renewal.
- Digital Presence:
- Videos of productions must be uploaded on YouTube/Facebook/Twitter, with public feedback considered during renewal.
Application Process
Offline Submission:
- Obtain Application Form:
- Forms and scheme details are available on the Ministry of Culture’s website or the National School of Drama (NSD) website.
- Fill the Form:
- Complete the form and attach required documents (self-attested).
- Submit:
- Send the application to: The Director, National School of Drama, Bahawalpur House, Plot No. 1, Bhagwan Das Road, New Delhi-110001.
- Recommendation:
- Applications must be recommended by State Governments, National Academies, or organizations like NSD, IGNCA, or Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs).
- Additional Guidelines:
- Register on the NGO-DARPAN Portal and obtain a Unique ID.
Required Documents
- Organization’s introduction, press reviews, advertisements, etc.
- Registration Certificate, Memorandum of Association, and Bye-laws.
- Unique ID from NGO-DARPAN Portal.
- PAN card of the organization.
- Last three years’ audited financial statements and balance sheets.
- Utilization Certificate (FORM GFR 12-A) from a Chartered Accountant.
- Details of Guru and Shishya/Artists with bank account details.
- Proof of cultural activities and productions (videos, press materials, etc.).
- Bank proforma verified by the bank manager.
- School certificates confirming cultural activities organized.
Selection Process
- Evaluation:
- Applications are evaluated by an Expert Committee appointed by the Ministry.
- Decisions are based on available funds, past performance, and recommendations.
- Grant Disbursement:
- Grants are released in one installment after the submission of required reports and verifications.
- Renewals:
- Renewal depends on meeting conditions like organizing cultural activities, staging productions, and uploading videos online.
- Performance Monitoring:
- At least 10% of grantees are reviewed annually, with non-performing organizations phased out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the main objective of the scheme?
- To promote traditional art forms through the Guru-Shishya Parampara model.
- Who can apply?
- Performing arts organizations, including theater groups, music ensembles, and children’s theater groups.
- What is the maximum financial assistance?
- ₹15,000 per month for Guru/Director and up to ₹10,000 per month for artists.
- How are grants disbursed?
- Through Electronic Payment/RTGS.
- What are the conditions for grant renewal?
- Organizing cultural activities, staging new productions, and uploading videos online.
- Is it mandatory to register on the NGO-DARPAN portal?
- Yes, all organizations must register on the NGO-DARPAN Portal.
- Can an organization apply more than once in a financial year?
- No, only one grant per financial year is allowed.