PROMOTING INDIAN CULTURE ABROAD

The Ministry of Culture’s Global Engagement Scheme (GES) has been revised and extended for FY 2026‑27 to 2030‑31 with an outlay of Rs 299.94 crore. Under GES, sub‑schemes such as the International Cultural Exchange Programme, Project Mausam, Brihattar Bharat and safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage are funded. The scheme supports Festivals of India abroad and provides Grants‑in‑Aid to Indo‑Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies through Indian Missions. Budgetary provisions and actual expenses for the scheme from FY 2021‑22 to 2025‑26 are listed, showing allocations ranging from Rs 4.65 crore to Rs 25.72 crore and expenditures from Rs 2.60 crore to Rs 24.92 crore. The scheme aims to strengthen cultural relations via cultural agreements, exchange programmes and participation in multilateral forums such as G20, BRICS, SCO and SAARC.