Haryana Launches “Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana” to Support Veteran Artistes

The Haryana government has introduced the “Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana”, aimed at providing monthly financial assistance to elderly and economically weaker artistes who have significantly contributed to the arts in the state. The scheme reflects the government’s commitment to preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage by recognizing and supporting senior contributors in fields like music, dance, painting, and theatre.

Why in News?

The Haryana Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, approved this scheme on May 5, 2025, ensuring monthly honorariums for qualified senior artistes. This move comes as a much-needed step toward supporting aged artistes who lack financial stability but have played a vital role in preserving and enriching the state’s artistic legacy.

Aim and Objectives

• To support the livelihood of senior artistes facing financial difficulties.
• To honour and recognize lifelong contributions of veteran cultural practitioners in Haryana.
• To preserve and promote traditional arts by valuing the artists who upheld them.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a resident of Haryana.
• Must have a minimum of 20 years of active contribution to fields such as singing, dance, drama, painting, or visual arts.
• Applicant must be 60 years or older, verified through Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP).

Annual income limits

• Up to ₹1.80 lakh: ₹10,000 per month.
• Between ₹1.80 lakh and ₹3 lakh: ₹7,000 per month.

Implementation Details

• Applications will undergo preliminary scrutiny by the concerned department.
• A special committee will assess applicants based on financial need and artistic contributions.
• Final selection will be made on merit, and beneficiaries will receive monthly honorariums accordingly.

Significance

• Addresses financial insecurity among senior artistes.
• Recognizes cultural value and social contributions of artists.
• Encourages a sustainable ecosystem for traditional arts by honouring past contributors.
• Named after Pandit Lakhmi Chand, a legendary Haryanvi poet and artist, further embedding the scheme in regional pride and legacy.