Kumar Bahukhandi
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai- Phot- channel24india.com
Raipur: In the cabinet meeting held under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday May 14, 2025 , an important and emotional decision was taken for those artists and litterateurs of the state who are facing financial crisis . Now the monthly financial assistance (pension) amount given to them has been increased from Rs 2000 to Rs 5000 per month.
Chief Minister Sai said that our artists and litterateurs are the soul of the society. Their contribution is invaluable. This decision is not just financial assistance, but a symbol of the state’s sensitivity and respect towards them. He said that this decision is a compliance of the announcement made in the budget session, and our government is committed to the empowerment of every section.
This pension is given under the Financial Assistance Scheme Rules-1986 of the Culture Department. This scheme was started in 1986, when the assistance amount was minimum Rs 150 and maximum Rs 600. Later in 2007 it was made Rs 1500 and in 2012 it was made Rs 2000, but there was no increase in it for 12 years.
It is worth mentioning that at present a total of 162 artists and litterateurs in the state are being given this monthly pension. Now they will get Rs 60 thousand instead of Rs 24 thousand annually, so that they can fulfill their basic needs in a better way.
This amendment approved by the Council of Ministers will put an additional annual expenditure burden of Rs 58.32 lakh on the state. Earlier, the total annual expenditure was Rs 38.88 lakh, which will now increase to Rs 97.20 lakh annually. But this expenditure is a proud duty for the state government.
Chief Minister Sai said that it is our responsibility to maintain the self-respect of those who have dedicated their lives in the service of art, literature and culture. This decision is a proof of sensitive and inclusive governance. This step of the government will not only provide financial support, but will also provide self-confidence and social prestige to artists and litterateurs.
