Patna: In a landmark initiative to support and recognize the contributions of senior artists, the Bihar government launched the Chief Minister Artist Pension Scheme at the Bihar Museum. The first pension disbursement ceremony was held alongside the celebration of the 29th National Youth Festival, honoring outstanding youth performers from across the state. The program was graced by Arun Shankar Prasad, Minister of Art and Culture, who served as the chief guest.
During the event, 18 senior artists from Patna district received their pension through ceremonial replica checks, while selected artists from other districts were credited directly via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Pension Scheme Details: Empowering Senior Artists
The Chief Minister Artist Pension Scheme provides a monthly pension of ₹3,000 to artists aged 50 and above who have contributed at least 10 years to the field of art. This scheme marks the first dedicated social security initiative for artists in Bihar, aiming to provide financial stability while encouraging the continuation of traditional and contemporary art forms.
Minister Arun Shankar Prasad emphasized that the scheme not only secures artists’ livelihoods but also ensures the transmission of artistic heritage to future generations. “Artists must continue to preserve and pass on their craft, keeping the art form alive for the next generation,” he said.
Anjani Kumar Singh, Director-General of Bihar Museum, described the initiative as a historic step in honoring and protecting artists. Department Secretary Pranav Kumar noted that many senior artists had not previously been covered under any pension schemes, and this effort provides them with long-awaited financial support.
Honoring Young Talent at the National Youth Festival
The event also celebrated young achievers who brought national recognition to Bihar at the 29th National Youth Festival. Talented youth awardees included Parth Kaushik from Rohtas, Ayushi Arya and Mahima Maurya from Patna, and Deepak Kumar, who excelled in painting, innovation, folk singing, and oratory competitions. The awards highlighted Bihar’s growing prominence in nurturing creative and cultural talent among youth.
In addition to the pension distribution and youth recognition, the Art and Culture Department also released its official departmental diary. Officials from the Museum Directorate, Cultural Affairs, Finance Advisory, and other senior department representatives attended the event, both in person and via video conferencing from districts including Patna, Saran, Jehanabad, Banka, Kishanganj, Khagaria, Araria, Bhojpur, and Purnia.
About the Chief Minister Artist Pension Scheme
The scheme provides ₹3,000 monthly to senior artists aged 50+ with a minimum of 10 years of contribution to the art field. This initiative aims to combine financial security with cultural preservation, ensuring that Bihar’s artistic heritage thrives while supporting both seasoned artists and encouraging young talent to pursue creative excellence.
