Ganderbal, Oct 24 (KNO): Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), Harvinder Kour on Saturday said the Academy has launched an ‘Artists and Writers Welfare Scheme’ to provide financial and other assistance to them.
Speaking at the fifth edition of Jashn-e-Manasbal, held at the Open Theatre in Manasbal, Kour, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said the scheme aims to support elderly, financially vulnerable and physically disabled artists and writers, besides families who have lost their breadwinners.
The event was organised by the Wular Manasbal Development Authority and Manasbal Dramatics in collaboration with JKAACL and the Department of Information and Public Relations.
Kour said the Academy has made provisions to assist deserving artists and writers, including support for their children's education.
"Artists and writers are ambassadors of our culture. We want to ensure that those facing financial difficulties do not feel neglected," she said.
She urged eligible artists and writers to approach the Academy and submit applications for assistance under the scheme.
Expressing concern over the declining participation of children in cultural programmes, Kour called upon organisers to actively involve the younger generation in such events.
"Our cultural heritage must be passed on to children so that they can preserve and carry forward this legacy," she said.
Kour also appreciated the cleanliness maintained around Manasbal Lake and thanked local residents for protecting the water body from pollution.
She congratulated Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, CEO Manasbal Shahnawaz, Nisar Hassan Bhat and the collaborating departments for organising the fifth edition of Jashn-e-Manasbal.
She stressed that protecting lakes, rivers and other natural resources is a collective responsibility, warning that failure to preserve them could result in the loss of valuable natural heritage—(KNO)