India Expands Cultural Outreach with Global Engagement Scheme
The Ministry of Culture has launched the Global Engagement Scheme to promote India’s rich cultural heritage worldwide. This initiative aims to strengthen international cultural ties, enhance India’s global identity, and boost inbound tourism.
Key Highlights of the Scheme
The scheme operates through Indian Missions abroad and focuses on cultural festivals, grants for cultural societies, and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
Festival of India: Showcasing Indian Culture Globally
Under this scheme, the Festival of India allows Indian artists to perform abroad, featuring:
- Folk arts – music, dance, theatre, and puppetry.
- Classical and traditional dance.
- Contemporary and experimental dance.
- Classical and semi-classical music.
- Theatre performances.
The Ministry has empaneled 627 artists/groups, with folk artists receiving ₹35,000 for lead performers and ₹7,000 for accompanying artists per performance.
Support for Indo-Foreign Cultural Societies
Grants are provided to Indo-Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies through Indian Missions abroad to foster cultural ties and mutual appreciation.
ICCR’s Role in Promoting Indian Culture
The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) plays a key role by:
- Conducting yoga, dance, and music classes.
- Teaching Sanskrit and Hindi.
- Organizing seminars, exhibitions, and cultural exchanges.
- Sponsoring scholarships for foreign students.
Financial Assistance for Veteran Artists
The scheme also provides ₹6,000 monthly financial aid to veteran artists aged 60 and above who have significantly contributed to Indian arts.
A Global Cultural Initiative
This initiative strengthens India’s global cultural presence and enhances soft power diplomacy, fostering deeper international connections through art and heritage.