The Silpi Pension Scheme is a comprehensive welfare initiative by the Government of Assam aimed at recognizing and supporting the outstanding contributions of artists and cultural technicians. This scheme provides monthly pensions and one-time financial grants to deserving artists, as well as special benefits for the families of deceased artists. It is designed to empower both active and retired artists, including Divyang (differently-abled) and indigent artists, ensuring financial stability and encouraging the pursuit of creative endeavors.
Benefits
- Artist Pension Scheme:
- Eligible artists receive a monthly pension of ₹8,000/-.
- Family Pension Scheme:
- Indigent families of deceased artists receive a monthly pension of ₹4,000/-.
- Barxik Silpi Sanman (Ex-Gratia Grant) Scheme:
- One-time grant of ₹50,000/- to honor exemplary contributions.
- One-Time Special Financial Assistance to Families of Deceased Artists:
- Provides an additional ₹50,000/- as immediate financial support.
For Divyang and bed-ridden artists, designated Cultural Development Officers or Junior Assistants from the Directorate of Cultural Affairs will assist with the online application process by visiting their homes.
Eligibility
- Residency:
- The applicant must be a permanent resident of Assam.
- Artistic Contribution:
- Eligible artists include those who have made outstanding contributions in fields such as Music, Dance, Fine Arts, Puppetry, Mask-making, and those associated with Mobile Theatre, Amateur Theatre, and Films.
- Indigent Families:
- Indigent families of artists who have contributed significantly to Assam’s cultural landscape are also eligible.
- Proof of Recognition:
- Applicants must submit a recognition proof certificate validating their contribution to art and culture.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Visit the Official Website:
- Click on “Apply Online”:
- Find and click the “Apply Online” option on the homepage.
- Register:
- In the registration window, select the appropriate category, fill in your personal details, and receive an OTP on your registered mobile number.
- Fill Application Form:
- Complete the online application form with all required information and upload the necessary documents.
- Submit:
- Click on the “Submit” button to complete your registration for the scheme.
Documents Required
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Age-Proof Certificate
- Domicile Certificate of Assam
- Identity Proof (Passport, Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving License, Ration Card, Bank Passbook, etc.)
- Passport Photograph of the applicant
- Joint Photograph of Husband and Wife (for Family Pension)
- Bank Passbook (first page)
- Income Certificate
- Death Certificate of the Artist (for Family Pension)
- Disability Certificate (for Divyang Artists)
- Achievement Proof Certificates
- Recognition Proof Certificate
- National/International Recognition Certificates (if any)
- Recommendation Letters (if any)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the scope of the scheme?
A1: The scheme provides financial support through monthly pensions and one-time grants to artists and their families, recognizing outstanding contributions to Assam’s art and culture.
Q2: How much pension does an artist receive under the Artist Pension Scheme?
A2: Eligible artists receive a monthly pension of ₹8,000/-.
Q3: How much pension does an indigent family receive under the Family Pension Scheme?
A3: Indigent families receive a monthly pension of ₹4,000/-.
Q4: Does the applicant receive a sum of ₹50,000/- every year under the Barxik Silpi Sanman Scheme?
A4: No, the Barxik Silpi Sanman is a one-time ex-gratia grant of ₹50,000/-.
Q5: How many types of schemes are there under the Silpi Pension Scheme?
A5: There are four types – Artist Pension, Family Pension, Barxik Silpi Sanman, and One-Time Special Financial Assistance to Families of Deceased Artists.
Q6: Is this scheme only for an artist and indigent family of artists?
A6: The scheme is primarily for artists and the families of artists who have made significant contributions to the cultural field.
Q7: What is the criterion for an artist?
A7: Artists must have outstanding contributions in fields such as Music, Dance, Fine Arts, Puppetry, Mask-making, Mobile Theatre, Amateur Theatre, and Films, and must provide a recognition proof certificate.
Q8: What fields of art and culture are considered under this scheme?
A8: The scheme covers a wide range, including Music, Dance, Fine Arts, Puppetry, Mask-making, Mobile Theatre, Amateur Theatre, and Films.
Q9: Is every family of an artist covered under this scheme?
A9: Only indigent families of artists who have made significant contributions are eligible for the Family Pension Scheme.
Q10: Where can I find the online application to avail of the scheme?
A10: The online application is available on the official website: https://www.silpisanmanassam.com.
Q11: What details are required while registering?
A11: Personal details, bank details, income details, and a description of your contribution to art and culture, among other required information.
Q12: What documents are required to be uploaded before submitting the application?
A12: Documents include PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, Age and Domicile Certificates, Identity Proof, Passport Photographs, Bank Passbook, Income Certificate, and relevant recognition and achievement certificates.
Q13: What happens if any wrong information is provided by the applicant?
A13: Providing false information may lead to disqualification from the scheme and possible legal consequences.
Q14: How will Divyang and bed-ridden artists avail of the scheme?
A14: Cultural Development Officers or Junior Assistants from the Directorate of Cultural Affairs will visit their homes to assist them with the online application process.