Guidelines for empanelment

The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, issues guidelines for artists and groups wishing to be empanelled for participation in the Festivals of India abroad. The call covers seven categories: Classical and Traditional Dance, Modern Experimental/Contemporary Dance, Classical Music (Hindustani and Carnatic), Semi‑classical/Light/Modern Music, Theatre, Folk Art, and Exhibitions. Applicants must have performed or participated at state, national, or international level, with a minimum of two performances, and be able to explain their art form to audiences. Foreign nationals must hold an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card. The application is submitted in MS Word format to the Festival of India Cell, ICR Division, Ministry of Culture, New Delhi, with separate submissions for each category and required YouTube or web links. Empanelled artists are classified as “Outstanding” or “Promising”; performance fees range from Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 1,50,000 per performance depending on category and group size. The Ministry provides travel, accommodation, visa, insurance, and daily allowance for artists selected for the festivals. Re‑application is allowed after a six‑month gap for those not empanelled or classified as promising.

Travel, accommodation, visa, insurance, daily allowance, and reimbursement of travel expenses.

Artists or groups must have performed at state, national, or international level with at least two performances, be able to explain their art form, and for foreign nationals hold an OCI card. Group size must not exceed 15 members.