PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Dehradun has the highest number of registered folk artists in Uttarakhand, with 116 singers and 79 cultural groups, according to official data shared by the State Culture department. The figures underline the scale of traditional art activity in the district as the State claims to strengthen support for the performers.
In comparison, other districts have significantly lower numbers. While Tehri has 41 registered singers, Uttarkashi 35, Pithoragarh 23, Nainital 13 and Chamoli 11. In terms of cultural troupes, Almora has 45 registered groups, followed by Nainital with 30 and Udham Singh Nagar with 21.
The data comes as the Uttarakhand government continues to roll out financial support for folk artists, including performance fees, travel assistance and daily allowances.
As per the current structure, individual artists receive Rs 800 per performance. The registered cultural groups are provided Rs 1,000 as travel support for the government programmes. The artists travelling outside their districts are also paid a daily allowance of Rs 400 to cover basic expenses.
The folk singers under the Lok Gayak category have been divided into two grades. A Grade singers receive Rs 7,500 per performance and can perform with up to five accompanying artists, while B Grade singers are paid Rs 4,250 along with travel support. The officials stated that the grading is based on empanelment and experience.
The support is aimed at sustaining traditional art forms such as Jagar, Pandav Nritya and Chholiya, which continue to be an important part of Uttarakhand’s cultural identity.
The officials further said that many artists depend on performances at government events and seasonal programmes for income. Rising travel and event-related costs have also added up to the challenges faced by the smaller groups.
In addition to performance-based payments, the government has continued its pension scheme for elderly and financially distressed artists, writers and litterateurs. Under the provision, eligible beneficiaries receive Rs 3,000 per month. About 121 people are currently receiving pensions.
The officials said that the effort is focused on providing financial support while ensuring that traditional art forms continue to thrive across the State.
