AI SummaryGuru Shishya Parampara Yojana preserves and promotes rare classical, folk, and tribal art forms by nurturing young talent under the guidance of traditional masters. Applications for the 2026-27 cycle are now open, and the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) has invited eligible gurus to apply before the deadline.
The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, runs the Guru Shishya Parampara Yojana through Zonal Cultural Centres. This scheme keeps the traditional guru-disciple relationship alive so that specialised knowledge in music, drama, dance, and many folk and tribal arts is passed on to the next generation.
Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme - Introduction
Launched in 2003-04, the scheme identifies eminent masters in classical, folk, and tribal arts to mentor students. The government provides monthly honorariums and scholarships to help systematic learning, thereby protecting India's vanishing cultural heritage. For the 2026-27 year, NEZCC has invited applications from candidates aged 45 to 70 years who have very good knowledge for imparting training in any cultural field of the region, such as folk dance and songs, bamboo, cane and wood craft, folk theatre, mask making, and similar arts. Special weight is given to dying and vanishing art forms of the North East.
Once selected and appointed as Guru, the person appoints one assistant and four shishyas within the age group of 15 to 25 years and imparts training for one year. The support is given as a monthly honorarium to the whole team for the full term.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Guru Shishya Parampara Yojana |
|---|---|
| Nodal Department | Arts and Culture Department / NEZCC |
| Benefit Type | Monthly Honorarium |
| Target Audience | Gurus, Accompanists, and Shishyas (Students) |
| Application Year | 2026-27 |
| Last Date to Apply | 31 August 2026 |
| Official Website | NEZCC official website |
Benefits
The scheme supports the training of traditional art forms by providing monthly honorariums to the selected team for a period of one year. The rates for the 2026-27 cycle remain the same as before:
- Guru: ₹7,500 per month
- Accompanist (one): ₹3,750 per month
- Shishyas (four): ₹1,500 per month each
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the basic conditions set by the scheme. The main eligibility points are given below:
- Applicants must be Indian citizens.
- Gurus must be eminent practitioners aged between 45 and 70 years.
- Gurus must be physically and mentally capable of managing a training centre.
- Shishyas must be between 15 and 25 years of age.
Application Process
Interested individuals must apply through the Department of Art and Culture or the Cultural Affairs department of their state. The application along with bio-data and supporting documents should be sent or submitted to the Directorate of Art and Culture of the concerned state before the last date. The steps for the 2026-27 cycle are given below:
STEP 1 - Get the application form and details from the NEZCC website at NEZCC official website or download the Guru Shishya Parampara application form.
STEP 2 - Fill in the form with complete bio-data, testimonials, age proof, and a detailed syllabus of the art to be taught, and attach documentary evidence of artistic skill.
STEP 3 - Submit the application to the Directorate of Art and Culture or Cultural Affairs of the concerned state before the last date of 31 August 2026.
STEP 4 - A State-level Selection Committee reviews the applications and conducts interviews or performance demonstrations before recommending candidates to the NEZCC for final approval.
Individuals who have previously availed benefits under similar government schemes are not eligible. Once appointed, the accompanist and shishyas cannot be replaced during the one-year term.
Documents
Applicants need to keep the following documents ready while applying:
- Identity proof
- Age proof
- Address proof
- Documentary evidence of artistic skill (VCD, DVD, CD, or photographs)
References
FAQ's
What is the primary objective of this scheme?
The scheme aims to preserve and promote rare or vanishing classical, folk, and tribal art forms by creating a mentorship environment where young talents learn under experienced gurus.
What is the duration of the financial support?
The financial support is provided for a term of one year.
What is the last date to apply for 2026-27?
The last date for submission of applications for the 2026-27 cycle is 31 August 2026.
Are there specific requirements for the Guru?
Yes, the Guru must be an established practitioner between the ages of 45 and 70, with the physical and mental ability to run a training centre.
Is there a disability quota for this scheme?
No, there are no specific disability criteria associated with this scheme.