The Punjab government has taken a significant step to provide financial assistance and welfare support to deserving and underprivileged artists by establishing a dedicated Rs 50 crore fund.
The fund aims to offer economic security to artists facing challenging life circumstances.
Artist Service Card Program
Under the Punjab Artist Service Card Program, eligible artists will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000 to help meet their daily needs more effectively.
Immediate Relief
In the initial phase, 63 artists were provided Rs 15,000 each as immediate relief. Stipends and grants will be transferred directly to the artists’ bank accounts via Bank of Punjab.
Applications and Eligibility
At the start of the year, applications were invited, and a total of 2,702 submissions were received. After verification, 1,831 artists were deemed eligible.
The approved list has been shared with the Punjab Social Protection Authority, and fund disbursement has already begun.
Additional Financial Support
The program also includes:
Educational grants: Up to Rs 300,000
Medical grants: Up to Rs 200,000
Special assistance for other essential expenses: Up to Rs 100,000
Pension for senior artists: Monthly pension of Rs 10,000–15,000 for artists aged 80+ under consideration
Relief scheme for artists aged 54 and above is also being planned
This initiative is welcomed by the artist community, which often faces financial hardships.
The program not only recognises the contributions of artists but also represents a serious effort by the government to improve their economic well-being.
