Ministry of Culture 'cuts' repertory grants
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IMPHAL, Apr 12 : The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, has reportedly cut the repertory grants for 126 cultural organisations in Manipur, a move that has drawn strong criticism from the State’s cultural community.
This decision, perceived as disrespectful to Manipur’s rich art and culture that represents India on the global stage, has caused significant distress among organisations working for the promotion of State culture.
Sanskar Bharati Manipur Prant has urged the Government authorities to intervene and restore the discontinued grants.
A meeting of the executive committee of Sanskar Bharati Manipur was held today at Brahmapur Harikhagok Makhong in Imphal East to discuss the matter in detail.
Following the meeting, Gurumayum Biseshwor Sharma, general secretary of Sanskar Bharati Manipur Prant, informed media persons that an order to cut the 2024-25 and 2025-26 repertory grants was issued by the Ministry of Culture’s Evaluation Committee on March 23.
The decision is seen as neglecting the Manipuri cultural organisations that showcase India’s heritage globally. Given the sensitive situation in the State, such actions are viewed as jeopardizing the livelihoods of those involved in cultural pursuits.
The grant cuts affect a wide range of organisations, including those led by respected gurus and teachers who have received prestigious awards like the Padmashree. This is considered a sign of disrespect towards these recognized figures.
While acknowledging potential errors in grant applications due to the ongoing unrest, Biseshrwor emphasized the significant contribution of Manipur’s cultural organisations to the nation. Sanskar Bharati Manipur Prant and other cultural bodies plan to submit a formal letter to the Ministry of Culture, requesting the reinstatement of the grants.
The Manipur Government has also been urged to support these efforts.
This decision, perceived as disrespectful to Manipur’s rich art and culture that represents India on the global stage, has caused significant distress among organisations working for the promotion of State culture.
Sanskar Bharati Manipur Prant has urged the Government authorities to intervene and restore the discontinued grants.
A meeting of the executive committee of Sanskar Bharati Manipur was held today at Brahmapur Harikhagok Makhong in Imphal East to discuss the matter in detail.
Following the meeting, Gurumayum Biseshwor Sharma, general secretary of Sanskar Bharati Manipur Prant, informed media persons that an order to cut the 2024-25 and 2025-26 repertory grants was issued by the Ministry of Culture’s Evaluation Committee on March 23.
The decision is seen as neglecting the Manipuri cultural organisations that showcase India’s heritage globally. Given the sensitive situation in the State, such actions are viewed as jeopardizing the livelihoods of those involved in cultural pursuits.
The grant cuts affect a wide range of organisations, including those led by respected gurus and teachers who have received prestigious awards like the Padmashree. This is considered a sign of disrespect towards these recognized figures.
While acknowledging potential errors in grant applications due to the ongoing unrest, Biseshrwor emphasized the significant contribution of Manipur’s cultural organisations to the nation. Sanskar Bharati Manipur Prant and other cultural bodies plan to submit a formal letter to the Ministry of Culture, requesting the reinstatement of the grants.
The Manipur Government has also been urged to support these efforts.