Bhubaneswar, Feb 6: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced on Tuesday a significant expansion of the ‘Mukhyamantri Kalakar Sahayata Yojana’, with the inclusion of an additional 30,000 artists. This scheme, spearheaded by the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department, stands as a cornerstone initiative to support artists in the region.
Following proposals put forth by artists and their associations during the 5T Chairman's district visits, advocating for the inclusion of more artists in the scheme, the Chief Minister made the decision to broaden its scope.
Originally, 50,000 artists were receiving a monthly assistance of Rs 1,200 each through this scheme. However, with the recent decision, the number of beneficiaries has surged to 80,000, marking a substantial increase and ensuring support for a larger pool of talented individuals across the state.
The essence of our folk arts serves as the pride of our heritage, with artists acting as vital ambassadors for our language, literature, and culture. By extending the reach of this scheme, we aim to empower and uplift artists from various corners of Odisha, fostering an environment where their talents are nurtured and rewarded.
This expansion not only safeguards our artistic traditions but also facilitates their growth and dissemination, contributing to the enrichment of Odisha's vibrant artistic landscape.