The Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme 2023-24 (CTSSS) is a pioneering initiative by the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT), under the esteemed Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Designed to inspire and support the budding talents in the realm of Indian classical performing arts, this scholarship aims to provide aspiring individuals with the resources and opportunities necessary to foster their skills and pursue a promising career in their chosen field.
The scholarship is bestowed upon gifted individuals excelling in classical music, dance, theatre, visual arts, folk art, traditional crafts, and literature.
Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme Details
| Name of Scholarship | Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme |
| Offered By | Centre for Cultural Resources and Training |
| Eligible Fields | Classical music, dance, theatre, visual arts, folk art, traditional crafts, and literature |
| Eligibility Criteria | Read Below |
| Scholarship Amount | Max. 10000 Rs for 2 Yrs. |
| Selection Process | Based on performance in interview/test |
| Scholarship Duration | 2 years from the date of the award (extendable up to 20 years) |
| Required Documents | Read Below |
| Application Deadline | 31st July 2023 |
Fostering Artistic Excellence: Benefits of the Scholarship
One of the primary objectives of the CTSSS is to provide financial assistance to deserving students, enabling them to pursue their studies and refine their skills in their chosen artistic discipline. Beyond financial aid, the scheme aims to empower students to develop their innate talent and contribute to the enrichment of Indian culture.
The selection of candidates is strictly based on merit, with recipients expected to maintain exceptional academic and artistic standards throughout their educational journey.
Eligibility Criteria for the Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme
To be eligible for the Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Age:
Candidates must fall within the age bracket of 10 to 14 years.
Educational Qualifications:
Candidates must be enrolled in a recognized board or institution.
Socioeconomic Status:
Candidates should belong to the economically weaker sections of society.
Parental Occupation:
Candidates’ parents must be professional practitioners of an art form.
Financial Need:
Applicants must make less than INR 8,000 in total monthly income.
Other Scholarships:
Applicants should not be receiving any other scholarships.
Scholarship Amounts and Categories
The scholarship amounts vary according to the category and level of the scholarship.
Below are the scholarship amounts for different categories:
- Junior Scholarship: Rs. 3600/- per annum
- Senior Scholarship: Rs. 5400/- per annum
- Scholarship for Outstanding Artists: Rs. 10,000/- per annum
- Scholarship to Young Artists: Rs. 5000/- per month for 2 years
- Scholarship to Outstanding Young Artists for Advanced Training: Rs. 10,000/- per month for 2 years
Timeframe and Extension of the Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme
The Cultural Talent Search Scholarship is valid for a duration of 2 years from the date of award. However, CCRT has the authority to extend the scholarship for up to 20 years, subject to the continuous exceptional performance of the student. Scholarships can be renewed multiple times, provided the students consistently display remarkable progress and submit monthly progress reports to CCRT.
CCRT Progress Report for Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme
The scholarship recipients are assigned to a senior faculty member or mentor in their respective institution or Guru/teacher. These students must submit a monthly progress report to CCRT, New Delhi, by the 15th of every month, using the format specified. If the progress report is consistently unsatisfactory or not submitted on time, CCRT holds the right to discontinue the scholarship.
Number of CTSS Scholarships Awarded by CCRT
Each year, CCRT awards 650 new scholarships to qualifying students. Some of these scholarships are reserved for:
- Tribal Culture (ST candidates): 100
- Families practicing traditional arts: 125
- Divyaang (Differently Abled) children: 20
- Students of Creative Writing/Literary Arts: 30
Documents Required for Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme Submission
Candidates applying for the CTSS Scholarship need to submit the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card
- Bank Pass Book
- Transfer Certificate
- Passport Size Photos
- Caste & Income Certificates
- Other Educational Documents
- Disability Certificate
- Form of Acceptance
- Progress Report
Application Procedure for CCRT Scholarship Scheme 2023
- Applying for the Cultural Talent Search Scholarship is a straightforward process:
- To access the application form, click the “Apply Now” button.
- Visit the linked link to get the application form.
- Fill out the form completely with the required information.
- Submit the filled form along with relevant documents related to one art form only.
Mail the completed form and documents to the following address:
Centre For Cultural Resources And Training (CCRT)
15-A, Block D, Sector 7 Dwarka, Dwarka,
New Delhi, Delhi 110075
Helpline Support
For inquiries or concerns, students can reach out to CCRT through the following channels:
Email: ddsch.ccrt@nic.in / dir.ccrt@nic.in
Phone: (011) 25309337 / 25309338 / 25309300
CCRT Official Website: ccrtindia.gov.in
Terms and Conditions for the Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme
The Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme (CTSS) is a prestigious program that identifies and supports exceptionally talented students in various fields. To ensure a smooth process and fair selection, the following terms and conditions must be adhered to:
Collaboration with Education Boards and NGOs
The CTSS can collaborate with renowned educational institutions such as the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), state government education boards, and reputable non-governmental voluntary organizations. This partnership helps in the identification of exceptionally gifted students across different domains.
No Quota System
The CTSS scholarships are awarded solely based on merit and talent. There is no state or Union Territory-wise quota for the distribution of scholarships under this scheme. It ensures that deserving students from all regions have an equal opportunity to receive recognition and support.
Exclusivity of CTSS Scholarship
A recipient of the CTSS scholarship should not simultaneously hold any other scholarship or stipend in the concerned art form, unless approved in advance by the Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme’s authorities. This measure aims to maintain the exclusivity of the CTSS scholarship and focus on nurturing the recipients’ talents.
Selection Process and Communication
The selection process for the CTSS scholarship is rigorous yet fair. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified through postal communication about the interview/test schedules and the venue. These interviews and tests are usually conducted at the regional level during the months of May to August every year.
By following these terms and conditions, the Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme aims to identify and support exceptional talents, providing them with the necessary resources and recognition to further excel in their chosen art form.
Conclusion
In conclusion, prospective candidates are advised to regularly check the official website of CCRT for the latest information about the Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme. It contains vital details related to the scheme, application procedure, important dates, exam schedules, results, and more. Embrace this remarkable opportunity to nurture your artistic talents and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture.