In a major move to support Bihar’s cultural community ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s cabinet has approved two new welfare initiatives: the Mukhyamantri Kalakar Pension Yojana and the Mukhyamantri Guru-Shishya Parampara Yojana.

Mukhyamantri Kalakar Pension Yojana – ₹3,000 per Month

This scheme provides a monthly pension of ₹3,000 to artistes engaged in traditional, classical, visual, and performing arts across both rural and urban areas of Bihar. It is designed to support elderly or financially struggling artistes who have contributed to preserving Bihar’s artistic traditions.

• Target Group: Artistes from rural and urban areas involved in traditional and performing arts

• Monthly Pension: ₹3,000 per eligible artiste

• Selection Process: Begins at the district level and is finalized by the state-level departmental committee

Mukhyamantri Guru-Shishya Parampara Yojana

Aimed at reviving and preserving near-extinct art forms, this scheme encourages the traditional transfer of knowledge through a structured honorarium model for teachers and learners.

• Guru (Master): ₹15,000 per month

• Musician: ₹7,500 per month

• Shishya (Disciple): ₹3,000 per month

The scheme covers the teaching and learning of folk tales, folk dramas, folk dances, folk music, folk instruments, classical arts, and traditional painting.

Strengthening Cultural Roots

These initiatives highlight the Bihar government’s commitment to safeguarding heritage art forms while also ensuring financial dignity for those who preserve them. With dedicated financial assistance, the schemes are expected to prevent the decline of cultural traditions that have shaped the identity of the state for generations.