(a) whether the Government proposes to introduce a new welfare/pension scheme for the welfare of cultural artists and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether any grant, pension or financial assistance/honorarium/scholarship has been granted to such artists in the country;
(c) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;
(d) whether the Government proposes to increase the pension amount for the artistsunder the said scheme; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE (I/C) FOR CULTURE AND TOURISM AND MINISTER OF STATE FOR CIVIL AVIATION (DR.MAHESH SHARMA)
(a) No, Madam. At present there is no such proposal under consideration of the Government.
(b) Ministry of Culture is implementing “Artistes Pension Scheme and Welfare Fund” to give pension to Persons Distinguished in Letters, Arts and such other walks of Life who may be in indigent Circumstances and their Dependents. Under the Scheme, artists whose personal income (including income of the spouse) does not exceed Rs. 4,000/- per month and who are not less than 58 years of age are considered for financial assistance of Rs. 4,000/- p.m. under Central Quota and Rs. 3,500/- p.m. under Central-State Quota. The eligible artists should have made significant contribution in the field of arts, letters, etc. for being considered for financial assistance under this Scheme.
(c) The State-wise number of beneficiaries under this scheme is given at Annexure.
(d) No, Madam. There is no such proposal under consideration with the Govt. to enhance financial assistance including pension amount to the cultural artists under the said scheme.
(e) Does not arise in view of reply to part (d) above.