Annual Financial Assistance of ₹12,000–₹24,000 to Support Folk Artists; Applications Open Until August 31
TFP Bureau, Raipur, August 5, 2026: In a major initiative to preserve Chhattisgarh’s rich folk traditions and strengthen the livelihoods of traditional artists, the Directorate of Culture and Official Language has invited applications for the Chief Minister’s Folk Artist Incentive Scheme-2026. The scheme aims to promote the state’s diverse cultural heritage while providing financial assistance to artists engaged in traditional art forms.
Under the scheme, eligible folk artists will receive an annual incentive ranging from ₹12,000 to ₹24,000 through direct electronic payment. The initiative seeks to encourage the preservation of traditional art forms, enhance the social and cultural recognition of artists, and support the sustainable growth of folk art groups across the state.
Artists associated with folk dance, folk music, folk theatre, traditional ballads, Chhattisgarhi songwriting, instrumental music, handicrafts, traditional cuisine, and indigenous art of adornment and makeup are eligible to apply.
Application forms are available on the official website of the Directorate of Culture and Official Language, www.cgculture.in, and can also be obtained from the Directorate’s office at Naya Raipur. Completed applications must be submitted through registered post in the prescribed format.
Registration on the department’s ‘Chinhari’ portal is mandatory for all applicants. The annual incentive will be credited directly to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts once every financial year.
To qualify for the scheme, applicants must have an annual income of not more than ₹96,000 from all sources. Candidates are required to submit an income certificate issued by the competent authority, along with bank account details, IFSC code, and a copy of their PAN card.
Applications should be addressed to:
Director, Directorate of Culture and Official Language,
Chhattisgarh Housing Board Commercial Complex, 2nd Floor,
Sector-27, Naya Raipur, Atal Nagar, Chhattisgarh – 492018.
The last date for submission of applications is August 31, 2026. Applicants have been instructed to clearly mention “Chief Minister’s Folk Artist Incentive Scheme-2026” on the envelope. All applications will be scrutinized by a selection committee, whose decision will be final.
Officials said the scheme reflects the state government’s commitment to preserving Chhattisgarh’s vibrant folk heritage while ensuring greater economic security and recognition for traditional artists, enabling them to pass on their cultural legacy to future generations.
