Scholarship Process and Evaluation
Applications for the SYA scheme are invited annually and undergo a rigorous evaluation process. After initial scrutiny, shortlisted candidates are called for interviews and interactions. Eligible applications are then placed before an Expert Committee for final approval. Scholarships are released in four six-monthly installments, with subsequent disbursements contingent upon timely submission of progress reports by the scholars.
The scheme has seen wide participation across states and union territories. States such as West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh recorded the highest number of beneficiaries. For instance, West Bengal alone accounted for 214 scholars in FY 2025-26, receiving ₹64.20 lakh, while Uttar Pradesh supported 99 scholars with ₹30.30 lakh during the same period.
Other states like Assam, Odisha, and Kerala also reported significant disbursements, reflecting the scheme’s reach across diverse cultural regions. Smaller states and union territories, including Sikkim, Goa, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, also had representation, though in smaller numbers.
Financial Overview
According to official data, the scheme disbursed ₹390.30 lakh to 1,293 scholars in FY 2021-22, ₹118.80 lakh to 396 scholars in FY 2022-23, ₹452.40 lakh to 1,507 scholars in FY 2023-24, and ₹325.50 lakh to 1,077 scholars in FY 2024-25. The current year, FY 2025-26 (till October 30), has already seen ₹327 lakh distributed among 1,079 scholars.
This consistent financial support underscores the government’s commitment to promoting cultural education and artistic excellence among India’s youth.
Government’s Vision
The SYA scheme is part of the Ministry of Culture’s broader vision to encourage young talent and preserve India’s intangible cultural heritage. By supporting artists in fields such as music, dance, theatre, visual arts, and folk traditions, the government aims to strengthen cultural diversity and ensure that traditional art forms continue to thrive in modern times.