Empowering Culture: Understanding the Cultural Function and Production Grant Scheme (CFPGS)

Introduction:-

Culture is the lifeblood of any society, reflecting its values, traditions, and creativity. In recognition of its significance, governments and organizations worldwide have been instrumental in supporting and promoting cultural activities. One such initiative that has gained prominence is the Cultural Function and Production Grant Scheme (CFPGS). In this blog, we will delve into the CFPGS, exploring its objectives, benefits, and impact on cultural development.

Quantum of assistance

Grant for specific projects under Para 4 above shall be restricted to 75% of the expenditure, subject to a maximum of Rs.5.00 lakhs per project as recommended by the Expert Committee.
The Ministry may in exceptional circumstances, increase the assistance to any project of outstanding merit and relevance upto Rs. 20 Lakhs with the approval of Hon’ble Minister of Culture.

Understanding the CFPGS:-

The Cultural Function and Production Grant Scheme (CFPGS) is a government-funded initiative aimed at fostering cultural development and preserving heritage through financial assistance to artists, cultural organizations, and creators. This scheme acknowledges the vital role culture plays in shaping societal identity and cohesion.

Scope:-

The Scheme covers all ‘not-for-profit’ organizations, NGOs, Societies, Trusts and Universities for supporting the Seminars,Conference, Research, Workshops, Festivals, Exhibitions,Symposia, Production of Dance, Drama-Theatre, Music etc. and
small research projects on different aspects of Indian Culture.The Organization should have been functioning and registered under the Societies Registration Act (XXI of 1860), Trusts Act, Companies Act or any Central or State Act for at least three
years.
The scheme will, however, not be applicable to such organizations or institutions which are functioning as religious institutions, or as schools/colleges. The Scheme is not meant for College/University Festivals. Grant will be provided for all types of interactive fora such as conferences, seminars, workshops, symposia, festivals and
exhibitions, production on any subject important to the preservation or promotion of cultural heritage, arts, letters and other creative endeavours.

Key Objectives:-

1. Cultural Preservation: CFPGS primarily focuses on the preservation of cultural heritage and traditions. It supports initiatives that aim to document, protect, and promote indigenous cultural elements, including music, dance, crafts, and languages.
2. Artistic Production: The scheme encourages the creation of new cultural works, whether they are artistic, literary, or performative. This includes supporting emerging artists and established creators in their endeavors.
3. Accessibility: CFPGS strives to make culture accessible to a wider audience. By providing financial assistance, it helps in organizing cultural events, exhibitions, and performances that can be enjoyed by people from various walks of life.
4. Cultural Exchange: Promoting cultural exchange and international collaboration is another important objective of the CFPGS. It enables artists and cultural organizations to participate in global events, facilitating cross-cultural learning and cooperation.

Benefits of CFPGS:-

1. Financial Support: One of the most significant advantages of CFPGS is the financial assistance it provides to cultural practitioners. This funding can be pivotal for artists and organizations to realize their projects and preserve cultural traditions.
2. Cultural Revival: The scheme plays a crucial role in reviving and rejuvenating fading cultural practices. It encourages artists and communities to take pride in their heritage and actively engage in its preservation.
3. Innovation: CFPGS promotes innovation within the cultural sector. By supporting new works and projects, it fosters creativity and experimentation, leading to the development of contemporary cultural expressions.
4. Community Engagement: Cultural events and initiatives funded by CFPGS often involve local communities. This engagement not only promotes cultural awareness but also strengthens community bonds.
5. International Exposure: Through CFPGS, artists and cultural organizations gain opportunities for international exposure. This exposure can lead to cross-border collaborations and a broader audience for their work.

Eligibility:-

•  The applicant organizations that are voluntary organizations or NGOs, should, in order to qualify for the grant, have a properly constituted managing body with its powers, duties and responsibilities clearly defined and laid down in the form of a written constitution
• The applicant organizations that are voluntary organizations or NGOs must register themselves on the NGO Darpan Portal of NITI Aayog and obtain a Unique ID from the Portal. The organizations are required to intimate the Unique ID as obtained from NGO Darpan Portal and PAN Number of the organization while applying under the Scheme.
• The Organization must have tied up or planned the matching resources at least to the extent of 25 % of the project cost.
• The Organization should have facilities, resources, personnel and experience to take up the event/ project for which a grant is required.
• Past experience of holding such functions, as applied for, would be given preference.

Impact of CFPGS:-

The Cultural Function and Production Grant Scheme has made a significant impact on cultural development in many regions. Some notable outcomes include:

1. Preservation of Endangered Cultures: CFPGS has played a pivotal role in preserving endangered cultures, languages, and traditional practices that might have otherwise been lost to history.
2. Emerging Talent: It has helped discover and nurture emerging talent, allowing them to gain recognition on both national and international platforms.
3. Increased Cultural Tourism: Cultural events and initiatives funded by CFPGS often attract tourists, boosting the local economy and promoting cultural tourism.
4. Strengthening Identity: By encouraging people to connect with their cultural roots, CFPGS strengthens individual and collective identities, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

Types of activities to be assisted and extent of assistance:-

Financial assistance may be given for the following purposes:

(a) Holding of Conference, Seminars, Workshops, Symposia, Festivals, Exhibitions, Production of Dance, Drama-Theatre, Music etc. and undertaking small research
projects, etc. on any art forms/important cultural matters.
(b) To meet expenditure on activities of development nature like conduct of surveys, pilot projects, etc. on cultural subjects including publications thereof .

The Cultural Function and Production Grant Scheme (CFPGS) is a testament to the importance of culture in our society. By providing financial support to artists, cultural organizations, and creators, CFPGS contributes to the preservation, development, and promotion of culture. Its impact is felt not only in the artistic and cultural spheres but also in fostering community engagement, economic growth, and cultural exchange. As governments and organizations continue to recognize the value of culture, initiatives like CFPGS serve as a model for empowering and celebrating the diverse cultural tapestry of our world.

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