New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – A parliamentary committee has recommended that National Akademis explore Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding for the protection and promotion of national heritage, art, and culture. This includes the restoration of historical sites and artworks.
The suggestion was part of a report titled "Action Taken by the Government on the Recommendations/Observations of the Committee Contained in its Three Hundred Fifty-First Report on the Subject 'Functioning of National Akademis and Other Cultural Institutions'", which was presented in Parliament on Monday.
The committee also proposed that one Member of Parliament be included on the governing boards of each cultural institution. Drawing a parallel with institutions like the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the panel believes this move will enhance oversight and provide ground reports to Akademis for better governance.
In response, the Ministry of Culture clarified that Akademis invite nominations from states and Union Territories (UTs) for their General Council. However, the nomination of MPs remains at the discretion of state and UT governments. The ministry stated that the committee’s recommendation would be considered while formulating new governance structures.
The committee expressed concern over the limited involvement of the private sector in supporting cultural institutions. It emphasized that there is significant potential for private sector participation in cultural initiatives through sponsorships, grants, donations, and investments.
The report highlighted that private partners could contribute not just financially but also by providing expertise, technical assistance, and innovative ideas for cultural events, exhibitions, and festivals.
The Culture Ministry acknowledged that some PPP (public-private partnership) projects have already been initiated in collaboration with private entities, state Akademis, and artistic societies. However, efforts are ongoing to expand private sector participation in academic and cultural programs.
The committee strongly recommended that Akademis leverage CSR funds for:
This aligns with Clause (v) of Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013, which permits CSR spending on cultural preservation. The panel also urged the government to consider mandating a portion of CSR funds specifically for cultural development.
The ministry responded that autonomous cultural bodies are already encouraged to seek CSR funds, external funding from other ministries, and non-governmental sources. A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is being issued to guide these efforts.
The panel emphasized that long-term, guaranteed funding is crucial for sustaining cultural initiatives. It stressed that artistic excellence requires strong infrastructure, and private sector collaboration can help in securing stable financial backing.
To enhance financial sustainability, the ministry has directed its bodies to generate internal revenue through sponsorships, collaborations, and investments under the PPP model. A comprehensive SOP is in the works to streamline these efforts.
The committee also recommended that Akademis promote rural and tribal stays, particularly for younger generations, to foster deeper cultural awareness. The ministry has noted this recommendation for compliance.
To expand India's cultural footprint globally, the committee advised Akademis to collaborate with tourism authorities and G20 stakeholders. The recommendations include:
The ministry has acknowledged these recommendations and assured their implementation.
This parliamentary push underscores the growing emphasis on integrating private sector resources and global collaboration to preserve and promote India’s rich cultural heritage.
The suggestion was part of a report titled "Action Taken by the Government on the Recommendations/Observations of the Committee Contained in its Three Hundred Fifty-First Report on the Subject 'Functioning of National Akademis and Other Cultural Institutions'", which was presented in Parliament on Monday.
Inclusion of MPs in Cultural Institution Boards
The committee also proposed that one Member of Parliament be included on the governing boards of each cultural institution. Drawing a parallel with institutions like the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the panel believes this move will enhance oversight and provide ground reports to Akademis for better governance.
In response, the Ministry of Culture clarified that Akademis invite nominations from states and Union Territories (UTs) for their General Council. However, the nomination of MPs remains at the discretion of state and UT governments. The ministry stated that the committee’s recommendation would be considered while formulating new governance structures.
Engagement with Private Sector and CSR Funds
The committee expressed concern over the limited involvement of the private sector in supporting cultural institutions. It emphasized that there is significant potential for private sector participation in cultural initiatives through sponsorships, grants, donations, and investments.
The report highlighted that private partners could contribute not just financially but also by providing expertise, technical assistance, and innovative ideas for cultural events, exhibitions, and festivals.
The Culture Ministry acknowledged that some PPP (public-private partnership) projects have already been initiated in collaboration with private entities, state Akademis, and artistic societies. However, efforts are ongoing to expand private sector participation in academic and cultural programs.
The committee strongly recommended that Akademis leverage CSR funds for:
- Restoring historical sites and artworks,
- Establishing public libraries,
- Promoting traditional arts and handicrafts.
This aligns with Clause (v) of Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013, which permits CSR spending on cultural preservation. The panel also urged the government to consider mandating a portion of CSR funds specifically for cultural development.
The ministry responded that autonomous cultural bodies are already encouraged to seek CSR funds, external funding from other ministries, and non-governmental sources. A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is being issued to guide these efforts.
Sustainable Funding for Cultural Excellence
The panel emphasized that long-term, guaranteed funding is crucial for sustaining cultural initiatives. It stressed that artistic excellence requires strong infrastructure, and private sector collaboration can help in securing stable financial backing.
To enhance financial sustainability, the ministry has directed its bodies to generate internal revenue through sponsorships, collaborations, and investments under the PPP model. A comprehensive SOP is in the works to streamline these efforts.
Promotion of Rural and Tribal Stays
The committee also recommended that Akademis promote rural and tribal stays, particularly for younger generations, to foster deeper cultural awareness. The ministry has noted this recommendation for compliance.
Cultural Tourism and G20 Collaboration
To expand India's cultural footprint globally, the committee advised Akademis to collaborate with tourism authorities and G20 stakeholders. The recommendations include:
- Encouraging G20 delegates to explore India’s cultural heritage beyond conference venues.
- Initiating collaborative projects between Indian cultural institutions and those of G20 member nations, including joint exhibitions, performances, and artist residencies.
- Using digital platforms such as social media, live streaming, and virtual exhibitions to showcase Indian culture to a global audience during the G20 summit.
The ministry has acknowledged these recommendations and assured their implementation.
This parliamentary push underscores the growing emphasis on integrating private sector resources and global collaboration to preserve and promote India’s rich cultural heritage.
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