The Government of India has set up seven Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) during 1985-86 having their headquarters at Patiala, Udaipur, Allahabad, Kolkata, Dimapur, Nagpur and Thanjavur.  The main objectives of the ZCCs are the preservation, promotion and dissemination of the traditional folk arts and culture of the various States/Union Territories.  The ZCCs have been carrying out various activities and programmes at the national, zonal and local levels in accordance with their aims and objectives implemented through various schemes. 

The details of the funds released to all ZCCs during the last two years are as under:                   

  (Rs. in Lakh)

The Government organizes various cultural programmes through its organizations like Zonal Culture Centres (ZCCs), Akademies etc. to promote Indian culture for all walks of people including youth. The ZCCs implement Young Talent Artistes’ Scheme to recognize and encourage young talents in the folk art forms of different regions in the country. The Non-Governmental Organizations availing grants-in-aid under various schemes of the Ministry of Culture have been asked to organize two cultural programmes in the schools.  The various social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, You Tube and Mobile Apps are being used for providing regular updates about the cultural programmes/events being organized by various organizations.

This information was given by the Union Minister of State for Culture (Independent Charge), Dr. Mahesh Sharma in reply to a starred question in the Lok Sabha today.

NB/PS