Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT) is implementing Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme (CTSSS) since 1982 at National level. The Scheme is aimed at providing facilities to outstanding talented children selected in the age group of 10 to 14 years studying either in specialized schools or belonging to families practicing traditional performing arts for getting specialized training in various cultural fields such as traditional forms of music, dance, drama as well as painting, sculpture, crafts and literary activities.

650 new scholarships are awarded every year. The scholarship is initially awarded for two years and is renewable up to the age of 20 years, subject to the awardees maintaining good progress. The value of scholarship is Rs.3600/- per year for the scholarship holder, in addition to reimbursement of the actual tuition fee paid to the Guru/Teacher, up to a ceiling of Rs.9000/- per year. CCRT provides Scholarship to such children/students who excel in respective sphere of art form.

The number of scholarships awarded in last 05 years under CTSS Scheme are around 2788.

As per the 51^st Meeting of Finance Committee of CCRT, the Committee in principle approved the enhancement of Scholarship amount and Tuition Fees reimbursed under Cultural Talent Search Scholarship (CTSS) Scheme from Rs. 300/- to Rs.500/- and Rs. 750/- to Rs. 1000/- respectively. Total number of scholarships are not proposed to be increased.

This reply was given by Minister of Culture, Tourism and Development of North-Eastern Region Shri G Kishan Reddy in Rajya Sabha today.

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