The Ministry of Culture’s Scheme for Financial Assistance for Veteran Artists serves as a strong social shield for senior artists and scholars who have dedicated their entire lives to the field of art, literature, and culture. The primary objective of this important scheme is to improve the economic and social status of senior artists who made significant contributions during their active years but now face difficulties in earning a living due to old age or disability. This excellent scheme empowers these senior members of the art world to live a dignified life.
How much monthly financial assistance will senior artists receive
Under this scheme, eligible artists are provided a fixed financial assistance of ₹6,000 per month. This amount is shared between the Central Government and the State Government or a joint administration. The Central Government’s contribution can be up to ₹5,500, while the State Government or Joint Administration’s contribution must be at least ₹500 per month. If a State Government is already providing a pension, the Central Government’s contribution will be adjusted against the remaining amount. The biggest relief is that upon the death of an eligible artist, this pension can be transferred to their spouse, as decided by the Central Government, ensuring financial security for the family.
Eligibility Criteria for Old Artist Assistance Scheme
Applicants must meet certain key criteria to apply for this invaluable scheme:
The artist or scholar must have made a substantial contribution to the field of art, literature, or culture.
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Traditional scholars who may not have published any work but have made profound contributions to their field are also eligible.
The applicant’s gross income must not exceed ₹4,000 per month or ₹48,000 per year.
The applicant must be at least 60 years of age (this requirement does not apply to the wife).
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The artist must not be receiving benefits from any other central or state government financial assistance scheme.
Application Process for Old Artist Pension
Applying for the Old Artist Pension can be done both online and offline. To apply online, you must visit the Ministry of Culture’s website and apply through the Culture Scheme Monitoring System (CSMS). Once all information in the application is completed, it is presented to an Expert Committee. The Committee recommends candidates based on the applicant’s eligibility and financial status. Based on the Committee’s recommendation and the availability of funds, the administrative department makes the final decision. Upon approval, the pension is disbursed directly to the bank account.
Documents
Documents required for the application include a passport-sized color photograph, address proof (Aadhaar card, voter ID, etc.), date of birth proof, and income certificate. Additionally, documents proving artistic, literary, or cultural contributions, awards and honors, a bank authorization letter, and a recommendation letter from the state government or joint administration are also mandatory.
If the pension is to be transferred to the wife
This will require the deceased artist’s death certificate, a digital life certificate, the wife’s income and identity proof, and an affidavit stating that the wife is not availing of any other scheme benefits.
