Global Engagement Scheme: India's Cultural Passport to the World
The Global Engagement Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, is a visionary initiative designed to elevate India's cultural footprint globally through purposeful partnerships, curated festivals, and strategic contributions. This scheme operates at the confluence of soft power and heritage diplomacy—offering the world a front-row seat to India's vibrant civilisational ethos. Whether it’s through soul-stirring performances or scholarly exchanges, the Global Engagement Scheme is India's way of saying, Let’s build bridges with baansuri and bharatanatyam.
Functioning under the larger framework of cultural diplomacy, the scheme is not a one-size-fits-all export of Indian culture but a dynamic, evolving network of artistic, academic, and institutional collaborations across continents. With a strong emphasis on authenticity, inclusivity, and mutual respect, it ensures that the diverse voices of Indian art—both classical and contemporary—find global resonance. It brings together governments, artists, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts on one shared platform of appreciation and exchange.
Key Components of the Global Engagement Scheme
1. Festival of India (FoI)
This is the crown jewel of the scheme. The Festival of India programme is a vibrant cultural showcase conducted in collaboration with Indian missions and cultural institutions abroad. Its strength lies in its immersive programming—think traditional dance troupes from Tamil Nadu performing in Tokyo, Rajasthani puppeteers enchanting kids in Paris, and sitar maestros casting a spell in Brazil. From 2013 to 2024, 62 such festivals have been organised engaging more than 2,300 artists from various regions and disciplines. The FoI platform encompasses not just performances but also art exhibitions, film festivals, literary events, and yoga workshops, all tailored to suit the cultural sensibilities of host countries while retaining Indian authenticity.
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2. Grant-in-Aid to Indo-Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies
Cultural diplomacy is often most effective at the grassroots level—and this component recognises that. Under this, the Ministry of Culture provides financial assistance to recognised friendship societies and cultural organisations located overseas that actively promote Indian art, literature, and philosophy. These societies function as cultural micro-embassies—hosting seminars, exhibitions, dance-drama performances, and academic exchanges that foster people-to-people bonds. By supporting these organisations, the scheme helps deepen cross-cultural friendships while also nurturing diaspora-led initiatives.
3. Contribution Grant to International Organisations
India’s commitment to global heritage preservation and multilateral cultural cooperation is reflected in this component. Through contributions to key international organisations such as UNESCO, ICCROM (International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property), and others, India plays an active role in shaping global cultural policy and safeguarding world heritage. These grants ensure India’s participation in international conventions, global dialogues, and conservation missions. It also allows Indian experts to contribute to and benefit from training programmes, research initiatives, and restoration projects hosted by these global institutions.
