TAMIL DEVELOPMENT- AND RELIGIOUS ENDOWMENTS DEPARTMENT TAMIL DEVELOPMENT-CULTURE

POLICY NOTE 2005 - 2006

“We should spread the delightful and sweetness of Tamil throughout the World” -- Bharathiyar

“ We should enrich our Tamil like an Ocean” -- Bharathidasan

A is not only an instrument of expression of our thought; but it is also a symbol of human civilization. The people express their Wisdom, Civilization and Culture through their language only. According to the Tamil Exponent Devaneyappavanar, “Language is one among the treasures of the nation; it is very hard to live comfortably and in a civilized manner without the help of a language and that the knowledge gained by the tireless efforts of our ancestors are being cherished only through their language”. The extent of adoration, the language enjoys, will be the level of pride of those, who speak that language. There is no “Superiority or Inferiority” among . The language of particular person stood high by himself. That is why, people living all over the world hails their language as “Mother-Tongue”. Perarignar Anna has guided us for the development of Tamil saying that “no other merit is required for a language to compensate its merit of “Mother-Tongue”. However, is acclaimed not only because it is our Mother-Tongue, but it is a treasure- trove of and that it is our duty to preserve it and to make refinement to improve the richness of the language”. No language could have been a grown language in the beginning itself. It is the duty of those people speaking that language to make it flourish. Then only that language will become alive, popular and flourish further.

The Hon'ble Chief Minister of held the historic Eighth World Tamil Conference in 1995 in the famous Town, in a grand manner, to make the greatness of Tamil known to the world. In that conference, she has declared that -

“At the end of the Fifth World Tamil Conference held in 1981, Puratchi Thalaivar M.G.R. emphatically declared ‘Tamil everywhere and Tamil in every Sphere’. I have great pleasure and feel proud in introducing a rousing slogan viz. ‛Tamil Today and Tamil for ever’ with a view to stabilize the new dimension and impetus, this Eighth World Tamil Conference has given to Tamil development and to make it known that Tamil in too and Tamil in all” that apart, “If any language fails to accept new changes, then the effects will reduce the enrichment of that language. If the language wants to change as an enriched language and stand firm for ever, that language should develop with the contents of sustained tradition and growing novelties”. By mentioning that she clearly shows the exact path for the development of the language. With the guidance of the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, the Tamil Development and Culture department has been doing yeomen service. This department has been taking sustained efforts for the multi-faceted development of Tamil and exhileration of Tamil culture. The details of Offices, Institutions and Organisations of this department engaged in the development of Tamil language, preservation and study of traditional heritage and promotion of Contemporary Arts are given below:-

DEVELOPMENT OF TAMIL LANGUAGE

1. Directorate of Tamil Development 2. Translation Wing 3. International Institute of Tamil Studies 4. Tamil University, Thanjavur 5. Directorate of Tamil Etymological Dictionary Project

PRESERVATION AND STUDY OF TRADITIONAL HERITAGE

6. Archaeology 7. Museums

PROMOTION OF PERFORMING ARTS AND CULTURE

8. Directorate of Art and Culture 9. Regional Cultural Centres 10. Government Colleges and Music Schools 11. Government Colleges of Fine Arts 12. Government College of and 13. Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram 14. Tamil Nadu Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu 15. Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Manram

BUDGET ESTIMATE FOR 2005 - 2006 ------Head of Account Plan Non Plan Total (1) (2) (3) (4) ------(Rupees in Thousands) REVENUE SECTION

2059 PUBLIC WORKS 01 Office Buildings ------053 Maintenance and Repairs - - 68,93 68,93

2202 GENERAL EDUCATION 03 University and Higher Education ------102 Assistance to Universities - - 4,25,00 4,25,00

05 LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT 001 Direction and Administration 17,54 2,56,12 2,73,66 102 Promotion of Modern Indian Languages and Literature 2 54,00 54,02 800 Other Expenditure 44,83 9,01,48 9,46,31

2205. 00 ART AND CULTURE 001 Direction and Administration 2,50 61,66 64,16 101 Fine Arts Education 2,55,86 3,75,06 6,30,92 102 Promotion of Arts and Culture 68,94 3,26,39 3,95,33 103 Archaeology 46,04 2,76,64 3,22,68 105 Public Libraries 1,27 33,74 35,01 107 Museums 16,53 3,68,95 3,85,48

2251. 00 SECRETARIAT - SOCIAL SERVICES 090 Secretariat - - 2,37,16 2,37,16

CAPITAL SECTION

4202 CAPITAL OUTLAY ON EDUCATION, SPORTS, ART AND CULTURE

04 Art and Culture ------

101 Fine Arts Education ------053 Museums 40,00 - - 40,00 VI Schemes shared between State and Centre 62,50 - - 62,50

TOTAL - NET DEMAND Add: Recoveries ------DEMAND NO. 44 5,56,03 33,85,13 39,41,16 ------

NEW SCHEMES FOR THE YEAR 2005-2006

Sl.No. Description of the Schemes Cost in 2005-2006

Total

Recurring Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure Non recurring (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

(Rupees in Lakhs) Secretariat -Tamil Development-Culture & Religious Endowments Department

Non Plan 1. Computerisation of Secretariat Department of 0.00 7.50 7.50 Tamil Development-Culture and Religious Endowments.

Directorate of Art & Culture

Non Plan 2. Repair and Maintenance of building of 0.00 5.00 5.00 Government College of Fine Arts, Kumbakonam.

Schemes in the Tenth Five Year Plan

3. Purchase of Photo Copier machine for 0.00 2.00 2.00 Regional Cultural Centres in and Salem districts.

4. Purchase of Computers for Government Music 0.00 1.50 1.50 Colleges at , and Thiruvaiyaru.

5. Construction of class room buildings for 0.00 25.00 25.00 Government Music College, Thiruvaiyaru.

6. Establishment of Audio Video Library at 0.00 2.00 2.00 Government Music Colleges, Madurai and Coimbatore.

7. Purchase of musical instruments for 0.00 4.00 4.00 Government Music Colleges at , Madurai, Coimbatore and Thiruvaiyaru.

8. Purchase of iron almirah to keep musical 0.00 2.50 2.50 instruments.

9. Creation of Audio Video Library in Government 0.00 8.50 8.50 District Music Schools.

10. Purchase of Computers to 17 Government 0.00 8.50 8.50 District Music schools.

11. Purchase of musical instruments for 8 0.00 8.00 8.00 Government District Music Schools.

12. Organising Students Art Exhibition. 1.00 0.00 1.00

13. Purchase of 2 Numbers of Liquid Crystal 0.00 4.00 4.00 Display Projectors.

14. Purchase of Computers and Accessories. 0.00 5.00 5.00

15. Creation of Audio Video Library in the 0.00 2.00 2.00 Government College of Architecture and Sculpture, Mamallapuram.

16. Establishment of Computer centre and 0.00 5.00 5.00 purchase of computers.

Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram

Schemes in the Tenth Five Year Plan

17. Completion of Art Gallery in the premises of 0.00 10.00 10.00 Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram.

18 Appointment of One Security Guard on contract 0.36 0.00 0.36 basis.

19 Conducting young artists camp at Tamil Nadu 0.00 1.00 1.00 Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu.

20. Conducting summer camps at Chennai and 3.00 0.00 3.00 Regional Centres (5 Camps).

21. Purchase of Photo Copier and fax machine for 0.00 1.00 1.00 Jawahar Bal Bhavan.

22. Production and Staging of Dramas on 0.00 1.00 1.00 the rare and important scenes in .

Department of Archaeology

Schemes in the Tenth Five Year Plan

23 Conservation of Monuments. 0.00 20.00 20.00

24 Excavation of historical sites at Marakkanam in 0.00 5.00 5.00 Villupuram district and Parikulam in district.

25 Improvement of Archaeological Museum at 0.00 1.00 1.00 Gangaikonda Cholapuram.

26 Publication of Guide Books of Gangaikonda 0.00 0.50 0.50 Cholapuram and Poondi Museums.

27 Printing of unpublished manuscripts of 0.00 0.67 0.67 Government Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Centre.

28 Purchase of Computer to Government Oriental 0.00 0.60 0.60 Manuscript Library and Research Centre.

29 Purchase of Computer along with table and 0.00 0.70 0.70 chair for the Regional Office at Thanjavur.

30 Publication of monograph 2 Numbers viz. 0.00 0.50 0.50 Thiruchendurai, Alagarkoil.

31 Preservation of estampages at Ooty by 0.00 1.00 1.00 digitization.

32 Publication of Archaeological guides of Madurai 0.00 0.80 0.80 & Dharmapuri districts.

33 Publication of Research Monographs on 0.00 1.50 1.50 1. Tamil Brahmi Inscriptions, 2. Select Inscriptions of Tamil Nadu.

34 Copying of Inscriptions by recruiting trained 0.00 5.00 5.00 unemployed students of Institute of Epigraphy of this department.

Government Museums

Schemes in the Tenth Five Year Plan

35. Renovation of Anthropology building and refurbishment of its Galleries. 0.00 40.00 40.00

36. Improving the Galleries in 5 district Museums (Vellore, Salem, Madurai, Kanniyakumari and 0.00 10.00 10.00 Tirunelveli).

37. Printing and re-printing of new and old Museum publications, picture post cards etc. 0.00 5.00 5.00

Directorate of Tamil Development

Non Plan 38 Purchase of furniture for the Directorate. 0.00 1.00 1.00

39. Purchase of Photo Copier machine to the 0.00 0.90 0.90 Directorate of Tamil Development.

40. Special Grant for Conducting Research 0.00 1.00 1.00 Seminar by the International Institute of Tamil Studies.

Schemes in the Tenth Five Year Plan

41. Translation and publication of Best 0.00 10.00 10.00 of and other countries.

42. Translation of Tamil Literature into Hindi. 0.00 5.00 5.00

43. Computerisation of Regional and District 0.40 8.00 8.40 Offices of the Directorate of Tamil Development. (16 Offices).

Directorate of Tamil Etymological Dictionary Project

Schemes in the Tenth Five Year Plan

44. Publication of 6 parts of the Tamil Etymological 0.00 12.00 12.00 Dictionary.

45. 180 days workshop for compilation and DTP of 0.00 5.04 5.04 7 parts of the Dictionary.

46. Purchase of Computer stationery etc. 0.50 0.00 0.50

Total 5.26 238.71 243.97

DIRECTORATE OF TAMIL DEVELOPMENT

The Tamil Development Department has two main functions. One is the implementation of Official Language and the other concerning to Tamil Development. This Government is taking continuous steps to improve the usage of Tamil Language in all fronts.

IMPLEMENTATION OF OFFICIAL LANGUAGE SCHEME

INSPECTION

The Tamil Development Department has taken various intensive steps to make full usage of Tamil language in Government Offices. Inspections are being made in Government Offices regarding the implementation of official language. The Departments of Secretariat are being inspected by the Secretary to Government, Tamil Development-Culture and Religious Endowments Department; the Offices of the Heads of Departments, Collectorates, Heads of Departments of Government undertakings are being inspected by the Director of Tamil Development and the Regional, District and Subordinate level Offices at Districts are being inspected by the Regional Deputy Directors / Assistant Directors of Tamil Development in the districts concerned.

SPECIAL INSPECTION SCHEME In order to tune up the implementation of Official Language Scheme, ‘Special Inspection Scheme’ is being implemented from the year 2003. Every Department of Secretariat, the Offices of Heads of Departments and Subordinate Offices functioning under the control of the concerned Secretariat Departments are being inspected simultaneously.

SEMINARS ON OFFICIAL LANGUAGE In order to create awareness and to encourage the implementation of the Official Language scheme among the Government Officers and Personnel, the Seminars on Official Language are being conducted in the districts every year.

ADMINISTRATIVE GLOSSARY, SUPPLEMENTARY GLOSSARIES OF SPECIAL TERMS Administrative Glossaries and Supplementary Glossaries of special terms containing the Tamil words equivalent to administrative terms in English are prepared and distributed to Government Offices.

TRANSLATION WORKS Translation of skeleton forms, registers, rules, codes, manuals, etc., are being carried out and supplied for effective usage of Tamil in Government Office procedures.

TAMIL DEVELOPMENT SCHEMES

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR PUBLICATION OF BOOKS

The role of books is very important in the development of a language. Therefore, financial assistance is given to support the publication of Tamil books. A maximum amount of Rs.25, 000/- or 60% of the printing cost whichever is less is given as financial assistance for each and every selected book.

PRIZES FOR THE BEST TAMIL BOOKS Publication of books in every field will add to the glory of Tamil language. With a view to encouraging the publication of best books in Tamil, prizes are awarded every year for the best book each in 31 categories and the prize amount of Rs. 10,000/- is awarded to the best book in each category. Publishers of prize winning books are also awarded a cash prize of Rs.2,000/-.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR AGED TAMIL SCHOLARS Financial assistance of Rs.500/ per month upto life time is given to the eligible Tamil Scholars for those who have completed 58 years of age, remarkably served to the cause of Tamil language and whose monthly income does not exceed Rs.400/ per month. During the year 2004-2005, the Government have sanctioned financial assistance to 9 Tamil Scholars.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR TAMIL STALWARTS WHO HAVE EXHIBITED COURAGE FOR THE GROWTH OF TAMIL LANGUAGE AND CULTURE

Under this scheme, financial assistance of Rs.3,000/- and medical allowance of Rs.15/- is given every month to the eligible Tamil Stalwarts and after their demise, the legal heirs are sanctioned financial assistance of Rs.1500 and medical allowance of Rs.15/- every month. In addition to that, free bus pass is also given to the stalwarts. Further, some of the stalwarts have been sanctioned a lumpsum grant of Rs.10,000 and their legal heirs a lumpsum grant of Rs.5,000/-.

AWARDS In the name of Tamil Scholars viz. Thiruvalluvar, Thiru. Vi.Ka., Bharathiyar, Bharathidasan and Ki.Aa.Pe., awards are given every year to the Tamil Scholars who rendered their best service for the development of Tamil. Each award carries a cash prize of Rs.1,00,000/-, one sovereign gold medal and a citation.

KURAL PRIZE Selvi Sivaraji, Selvi R. Aruljothi, Selvi A. Selvabharathi, Selvan A.Ezhilarasan and Selvan A.Palanimuthu were granted a lumpsum amount of Rs .5,000/- each as cash prize for their efficiency in Thirukkural mutrothal.

GRANT / FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO INSTITUTE TAMIL CHAIR IN THE UNIVERSITIES OF OTHER STATES AND TO EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS FOR CONDUCTING TAMIL DIPLOMA COURSES

In order to facilitate the people in other States to learn Tamil and to spread Tamil language, literature and culture, financial assistance / grant is being provided to institute Tamil Chairs and to conduct Tamil Diploma Courses in the Universities of other States. During the year 2003 - 2004, a sum of Rs.50.00 lakhs was sanctioned as grant to the Jawaharlal Nehru University, New for instituting a Tamil Chair.

Further, the post of Lecturer in the Mahakavi Bharathiyar Tamil Chair in Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi has also been filled up for effective functioning of the Chair.

CELEBRATIONS

In order to perpetuate the memories of dignified Tamil Scholars who rendered extraordinary service to Tamil , celebrations like Thiruvalluvar day are celebrated by this Department every year. Centenary Celebrations of Tamil Scholars are also celebrated. The statue of 'Tamil Thatha' Dr.U.Ve.Sa is being garlanded on his birthday , the 19th of February every year. The statue of is being garlanded on the International Women's Day, the 8th of March every year in appreciation of the services of Avvaiyar for the cause of the feminine community .

NATIONALISATION OF BOOKS

With a view to reach the public, the literary works of reputed Tamil Scholars have been nationalised by the Government from time to time. In this regard, the Government ordered to nationalise the literary works of Navalar Na.Mu.Venkatasamy Nattar, Thiru Ka.Na.Subramaniyam and Thiru.Na.Pitchamurthy during the year 2003 - 2004 and sanctioned a total amount of Rs.15.00 lakhs at Rs.5.00 lakhs each to their family. The said amount was handed over to their family by the Hon'ble Chief Minister on 01.03.2005.

PUBLICATION OF BOOKS

The books which are useful to the implementation of Official Language and to the development of Tamil were prepared and published by this department. The preparation works of Books on , Source Books for I.A.S Examination, The Bibliography of Tamil Printed Books, New History of Tamil Literature, Thirukkural Encyclopaedia, Encyclopaedia of Technical Terms, Palthurai Kalaikalangiyam and Verbose on Literature are in progress.

WORD BANK

A scheme of ‘WORD BANK’ has been formed and functioning as a proper organisation to create equivalent Tamil words to the words used in other language and to renew the ancient Tamil words according to the modern needs and to make use of words according to the need which are in usage among the public. Experts from various fields assemble every month and create new Tamil words. Proper follow up action is being taken to use these words by all.

TAMIL MANRAM

The Government have ordered to form Tamil Manrams in schools at District level and to conduct competitions in Tamil poetry, essay and eloquence among the 11th and 12th standard students and to distribute prizes to develop creativity and oratory skills of students in Tamil. Thus, the Government have paved the way among the students to participate eagerly in the poetry, essay and eloquence competitions and to instill love for the mother - tongue in the minds of students during their student life. First and second prizes are awarded at the district - level competitions in poetry, essay and eloquence and an amount of Rs.1000/- and Rs.500/- is being given as first and second prize respectively. State level competitions are also conducted from the year 2003-2004 .The first prize winners at district level competitions are eligible to participate in the State level competition. Winners of the State level competition in poetry, essay and eloquence are awarded three cash prizes. The first, second and third prizes are Rs.5000/-, Rs.3000/- and Rs.2000/- respectively .

COMPETITIONS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

From the year 2003-2004, competitions for college students are also being conducted at district and state level. At district level, the first prize of Rs.1000/- is given to each winner in poetry, essay and eloquence competitions . The winners at the State level competition are awarded first, second and third prizes of Rs.5,000/-, Rs.3,000/- and Rs.2,000/- respectively in all the three categories of competition.

TAMIL DEVELOPMENT COMPLEX

For the Department of Tamil Development and for the offices of the departments pertaining to the Tamil Development-Culture, the Tamil Development Complex with seven floors in Government Museum Campus at in Chennai has been proposed with the estimate of Rs.6.27 crores. In the first phase of this project, basement floor, ground floor and first floor at a cost of Rs.2.00 crores have been constructed.

The building is now constructed in a total area of 23137 sq.feet with the basement floor of 3751 sq.feet, ground floor of 9611 sq.feet and the first floor of 9775 sq.feet. This building is provided with all basic facilities including rainwater harvesting system. The Hon'ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has declared open this building on 3.3.2005. The office of the Directorate of Tamil Development which was functioning at Kuralagam in Chennai with the rent of Rs.55,198/- per month is now functioning in the Tamil Development Complex. The printing wing of the Archaeology Department is functioning in the basement floor and the Directorate of Archaeology is functioning in the ground floor and the Directorate of Tamil Development is functioning in the first floor of this new building.

OTHER WORKS

During the year 2004-2005, necessary steps have been taken to implement the works regarding the formation of library in the Directorate of Tamil Development, preparation of C.D. on Tamilagam Oorum Seerum, preparation of Tamil Software, preparation of Digital Dictionary, preparation of Spell checker, preparation of Grammar checker and training programme on implementation of Official Language.

NEW SCHEMES

The Government have proposed to implement the schemes such as translation and publication of the best literatures of not only our country but that of other countries also, translation of Tamil literature in Hindi, purchase of furniture and photo copier machine to the Directorate of Tamil Development and computerisation of Regional and District Offices of the Tamil Development Department at a total cost of Rs.25.30 lakhs during the year 2005-2006 under part-II scheme.

TRANSLATION WING

The Translation Wing of Tamil Development-Culture and Religious Endowments Department is rendering excellent service for the effective implementation of official language scheme. This Wing renders translation for the Government Notifications published in Tamil Nadu Government Gazettes and all District Gazettes, Note for circulation, Policy Notes of various Departments, Reports of Public undertaking and Public Accounts Committees, Police Medal and Prision Service Medal citations, Annual Report of Vigilance Commission, Grounds of Detention orders issued under “COFEPOSA ACT”, Notes for Cabinet, Speeches of Hon'ble Ministers and Press Releases etc. In addition to the above, this year some specific works like hand- books published by Public (Elections) Department, Report on Women's Empowerment, Report on eradication of child labour, Booklet on interlinking of rivers, Report on Human Rights Commission were also undertaken. This Wing is also rendering English version for the matters received in Hindi for the . Apart from this, a team headed by an Assistant Director consisting of One Section Officer and three Assistant Section Officers is deputed to Finance Department every year to translate Governor's Address, the speech delivered by the Hon'ble Minister for Finance presenting the Annual Budget and the documents connected with the Budget and supplementary Estimates. Likewise, one Assistant Section Officer from the wing is deputed to Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly Secretariat for attending to urgent translation works during the Assembly Sessions. One team is deputed to Public (Protocol) Department to attend to translation work connected with the Collectors and Police Officials Conference.

INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TAMIL STUDIES

The International Institute of Tamil Studies was established in the year 1970 by the for pursuing higher research in at the International level. The Institute is functioning with the grant-in-aid from the Government of Tamil Nadu. At present, the Institute has four Faculties viz., Faculty of

Tamil Literature and Manuscriptology, Faculty of Tamil Language and Linguistics, Faculty of Sociology, Art and Culture and Faculty of Overseas .

The Institute has several functions such as undertaking projects relating to Tamilology; publishing books; conducting courses on Tamil language to foreign students; conducting regular classes for M.Phil. and M.A., in Tamil in affiliation with the Tamil University; diploma courses on manuscriptology and translation; conducting seminars and workshops and bringing out News letters and a Journal entitled Journal of Tamil Studies apart from pursuing UGC major research projects. Academic staff members of the Institute are involved in several higher research projects in Tamilology. These projects related to literature, grammar, linguistics, language teaching, history, sociology, culture, folklore and translation. The Institute has so far published 531 titles. These publications fall under the categories of project works of the academic staff of the Institute, endowment lectures, printing of unpublished palm leaf manuscripts and books written by other Tamil Scholars. The Institute has also published books with the financial assistance of the Directorate of Tamil Development under the scheme of financial assistance for the publication of Rare Books and Translated Books. The Institute has published 48 titles in the year 2004-2005 itself. The Institute on its own and also in collaboration with other institutions is conducting several seminars and workshops. A three day seminar on ‘Dravidian Poetics’ was conducted in a grand manner during the month of March,2004 with the financial assistance of the Department of Culture, Government of India.

A ‘Literary Forum’ was inagurated at this Institute and the inaugural meeting was held at this Institute on 03.11.2004. A two day ‘36th All India University Tamil Teachers Conference’ was conducted at this Institute with the exclusive voluntary sponsorship during May, 2004.

To commemorate the services of the repute of Tamil Scholars of yester years, the International Institute of Tamil Studies explored the avenues for the same and conducted 16 such seminars in the first round. Followed by this, the second round of such serial seminars are being organised. 10 such seminars were conducted since March,2004. Articles presented for these seminars by the scholars are being edited and published in their names by this Institute. So far, 9 such titles were brought out.

The Institute conducts Friday Seminars to interact with the Research Students and academic staff of their institute to improve the quality of the research and 29 such seminars were conducted during the year 2004- 2005 under the auspices of ‘20th Century Poets’. Efforts are on to publish these seminar papers.

To stimulate the Research Methodology among the Ph.D students of the Institute, Monthly Research Forum seminars are organised in every month and 9 such seminars have been conducted during the year 2004- 2005. This Institute has 29 Endowments in the names of Erudite Scholars. The responsibilities to organise and conduct lectures under these endowments have been distributed among the academic staff of this Institute and the endowment lectures are arranged by them. All the endowment lectures are being published in the book format on the day of the lecture itself. 14 Endowments Lectures have been conducted during the period from March, 2004 to January,2005. One new Endowment at a cost of Rs.25,000/- has been established in the name of Dr. M. THAMIZHKUDIMAGAN during the year 2004-2005. The Institute has a library which houses 82,000 books at present. With the full donation amount of Rs.9.50 lakhs contributed by Dr. P. Sivanthi Aditanar, the Managing Director of the ‘Daily Thanthi’, a library reading room and a seminar hall were constructed through the Public Works Department during the period 2003- 2004. Out of the special grant of Rs.1,67,600/- sanctioned by the Government of Tamil Nadu, 63 Steel Racks have been purchased and erected at this Institute’s Library.

The Institute is publishing its bi-lingual Journal, ‘Journal of Tamil Studies’ since 1971. The Institute is publishing a Quarterly ‘News letter’ since 1987. Such issues elucidate the activities of the Institute. Efforts were taken to convert the same as a monthly issue and two such monthly issues were published. Pursuant to the permission by the Government of Tamil Nadu, the following Courses were started during the year 2004:- 1) M.Phil. Tamil 2) Tamil M.A. (Literature) 3) Tamil M.A. (Functional Tamil)

The Government sanctioned a sum of Rs.2.00 lakhs towards creating infrastructure for these Courses. 25 Students for the M.Phil. Course and 7 students for M.A. Classes were enrolled and benefitted. Ph.D. Research pursuits are in progress. With the affiliation of the Madras University, Ph.D. Research is undergoing at this Institute. 13 persons have been enrolled for Ph.D. research during the year 2004.

NEW SCHEMES

It has been proposed to conduct research seminar with the special grant amount of Rs.1.00 lakh to be sanctioned to the International Institute of Tamil Studies under Part-II Scheme for the year 2005-2006.

TAMIL UNIVERSITY, THANJAVUR

For the classical language of Tamil, the Tamil University, Thanjavur was established under the Tamil Nadu Act 9 of 1982 as a high level academic centre for the purpose of furthering the advancement of Tamil Studies through various research programmes and projects. Since its inception from 1981, it is conducting research works in the field of various aspects of Tamil language such as art, culture, sculpture, architecture, literature, linguistics, history, manuscriptology, epigraphy, , earth , , ancient sciences etc., and has published many rare research books. This University comprises of five faculties, namely Arts, Language, Manuscriptology, Developing Tamil and Sciences with 23 departments besides the Printing Press, Publication, Library, Museum, Encyclopaedia and Lexicon Centres. During the academic year 2002-2004, 119 students i.e. 96% have passed in Post Graduate courses. 49 students have passed in six Certificate Courses started in the year 2003-2004. The Post Graduate Diploma Course in Telugu language has been started in the School of Indian Languages in the year 2004-2005 and the classes are being conducted. Insurance coverage has been provided to the students. 194 students have joined in M.Phil. Courses in 17 departments during the year 2004-2005. In all, 605 Research Scholars are continuing their Ph.D. studies during this year also and in addition to, 75 researchers are expected to register this year. The School of Indian Languages is conducting Tamil Proficiency Courses for the benefit of IAS, IPS and IFS Probationers with the financial assistance of the Government of Tamil Nadu. For conducting refresher courses for the benefit of College and University Teachers, concurrence and financial assistance of UGC has been sought for. Under the ageis of various Endowments created in the Tamil University, Seminars, Lecture sessions will be conducted this year also as was done last year. Programmes like Thinaiarangam, Payilarangam, Mozhiarangam involving Students-Teachers interaction have been periodically conducted in the departments. This will continue in the coming year also. Under the Xth Five Year Plan Scheme, the UGC has sanctioned a sum of Rs.225.00 lakhs for the development of Tamil University and a sum of Rs. 135.00 lakhs has been received so far. The amount was utilized for the purchase of equipments and books for the departments and library.

A centre for was established by the Centre for Philosophy of Tamil University in collaboration with the “Manavalakkalai Manram” of Thanjavur with the financial assistance from UGC. The centre has proposed to conduct short-term Certificate Courses and PG Diploma Courses in Yoga Training for students, staff and general public during the year 2005-2006.

The Government of Tamil Nadu has entrusted the work of preparation of Encyclopaedia for Technical terms to the Tamil University and released a grant of Rs.3,79,000/- for this purpose. The Tamil University has constituted a committee consisting of experts in the field of coining of Technical terms. The work of coining of Technical terms will be undertaken based on the recommendations of the Committee.

Out of the allocation of Rs.10.00 lakhs sanctioned by the UGC under Xth Five Year Plan Scheme, books worth of Rs.5.00 lakhs have been purchased in the year 2004. The balance amount of Rs.5.00 lakhs will be utilized for the purchase of books during the year 2005-2006. The Ernet System has been established in the year 2004 with the financial assistance of UGC.

During the year 2005-2006, the University has proposed to publish 25 books. In the year 2004, books worth of Rs.24,14,224/- were sold. As followed last year, promotion campaign through special discount sales of books has been launched on the eve of the Tamil New Year Day and the Tamil University Annual Day. Sales through agents and participations in various Books Exhibitions in places other than Thanjavur have also improved the sales of books.

The Tamil University News Bulletin has been brought out every month. MADURAI WORLD TAMIL SANGAM

The work of establishing Madurai World Tamil Sangam was entrusted to the Tamil University, Thanjavur by the Government of Tamil Nadu. Efforts are on for construction of compound wall, drainage system, building and complex. Out of Rs.10.00 lakhs received for preliminary works, it has been proposed to conduct seminar in the year 2005. With the assistance of the Government of Tamil Nadu, the Tamil University will continue to work for the development and progress to enrich Tamil Language, Literature, Culture and Heritage.

DIRECTORATE OF TAMIL ETYMOLOGICAL DICTIONARY PROJECT

Preparation and publication of the Etymological Dictionary of the Tamil language occupies a significant place in the development and enrichment of the language. The aim and objective of the Directorate of Tamil Etymological Dictionary Project is to bring out a comprehensive Etymological Dictionary in multi volumes. The unique feature of this bilingual Dictionary is that apart from general purpose dictionary, it is immensely useful to the researchers in Tamilology and Dravidian studies. With a view to highlighting the richness of the language and at the same time to cater to the needs of the chaste Tamil speaking class, both alien and Tamil words are exhibited separately in this Dictionary. Besides, extensive quotations as evidences, in support of the entries from various sources such as Archaeology, Numismatics, Epigraphy, Grammar and Literature, the Dictionary is embellished with figurative illustrations, wherever necessary.

The Etymological Dictionary of the Tamil language being brought out by this Directorate is the voluminous and most informative of all the Etymological Dictionaries published in the Indian languages. Pursuant to the announcement of the Government that apart from the 6 parts already published, the remaining 25 parts of the proposed 31 parts would be completed in four years time, work was expedited to achieve the target. As a result of which 6 parts in the year 2002-2003, next 6 parts in the year 2003-2004 followed by 6 more in the year 2004-2005, totally 18 parts have been made ready for printing which is certainly a remarkable achievement to be lauded. Of these, printing of 6 parts is already over and 6 parts are under print. The printing of the next 6 parts will be taken up in the year 2005-2006.

During the year 2005-2006, the compilation work of the last remaining 7 parts will be taken up and completed.

NEW SCHEMES

The Government have proposed to implement the schemes such as publication of 6 parts of the Tamil Etymological Dictionary, 180 days workshops for compilation and DTP of the last remaining 7 parts of the Dictionary and purchase of computer stationeries etc., at a total cost of Rs.17.54 lakhs during the year 2005- 2006 under Part-II schemes.

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHAEOLOGY

The Department of Archaeology was started in the year 1961 with the objectives of conservation and preservation of ancient monuments in Tamil Nadu and for conducting excavations at historical sites. Subsequently, it was expanded in various fields of activities such as copying of stone inscriptions, printing and publishing them in book form, setting up of site museums, chemical preservation of art objects, photo section, registration of antiquities etc. So far, 88 monuments including religious and secular monuments have been declared as protected monuments. Under the Eleventh Finance Commission grant, a sum of Rs.447.31 lakhs has been allotted for the monuments structural and conservation and the works have been completed. The excavations at historically important places are being conducted every year. So far excavations have been carried out at 25 historical sites and valuable antiquities have been unearthed; they are being preserved in 14 archaeological site museums situated in various districts of the State. Under the scheme of Archaeological excavation at historical sites programme, two historical sites 1) Andipatti in Chengam Taluk of Thiruvannamalai District 2) Modur in have been selected for the year 2004-2005. The excavation work has already been started in the above sites and the works are in progress. During the year 2005-2006, it has been proposed to conduct excavation at the early historical site of Marakkanam in Villupuram District and at Parikulam, a prehistoric site located near Poondi in Tiruvallur District. An Institute of Epigraphy is functioning in the Commissionerate, which conducts a one year Diploma Course in Epigraphy and Archaeology. Every year 8 Post Graduate students are being enrolled and training is given in Epigraphy and Archaeology. Recently, the Department of Archaeology has been recognized as a Center for conducting research leading to Ph.D. Degree in Archaeology by the University of Madras. Under the programme of village-wise copying of inscriptions of Tamil Nadu, inscriptions in Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Kanniyakumari, Nagappattinam, Thiruvarur, Thanjavur, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri and Chennai Districts have been completed upto the year 2004 –2005. Further, a scheme of involving the unemployed students trained in the Institute of Epigraphy run by this department in copying of inscriptions is also planned. Village-wise copying of inscriptions in Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Karur, , Cuddalore and Tiruvallur Districts are planned to be completed in the next year.The estampages preserved in Ooty Epigraphy branch will be digitalized during the year. Under the scheme of publication of inscriptions of Tamil Nadu, two books with the titles “ Papanasam Taluk Inscriptions Volume I’’ and “Inscription of Tamil Nadu 2004’’ were published during the year 2004-2005. It is proposed to publish twelve books in the coming financial year under the following subjects viz. Excavation Reports, Inscriptions of Tamil Nadu, Guide Books for the site museums and District Archaeological guides as well as two monographs prepared by the students of the Institute of Epigraphy and a Monograph on Tamil Brahmi Scripts and select are also proposed to be brought out. To enforce ‘The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972’, two Registering Offices one at Chennai and another at Tiruchirappalli are functioning. Antiquities of more than one hundred years old are registered and

certificates issued thereon. Upto December, 2004, 40,866 antiquities have been registered and certificates issued.

The Government Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Centre located in the Madras University campus is functioning under the control of this Department. More than 72,300 palm leaves and paper manuscripts dealing with medicine, mathematics, astrology,astronomy and literatures are being preserved in the Library.

During the year 2004-2005, the departmental web-site at a cost of Rs.5.00 lakhs has been prepared.

NEW SCHEMES

It has been proposed to implement the schemes such as conservation of monuments, excavation at historical sites at Marakkanam in Villupuram district and Parikulam in Tiruvallur district, improvement of Archaeological Museum at Gangaikondacholapuram, publication of Guide Books of Gangaikondacholapuram and Poondi Museums, printing of unpublished manuscripts of Government Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Centre, purchase of computer to the Government Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Centre and purchase of computer to Regional office at Thanjavur, publication of two Monographs of the students of Epigraphy on the history and temple art and architecture of the temples at Thiruchendurai and Alagarkoil, preservation of Estampages at Ooty by digitization, publication of Archaeological Guides of Madurai and Dharmapuri, Districts publication of Research Monographs on Tamil Brahmi Inscriptions and select Inscriptions of Tamil Nadu and copying of Inscriptions by recruiting trained unemployed students of Institute of Epigraphy at a cost of Rs.37.27 lakhs during the year 2005-2006 under Part-II schemes.

GOVERNMENT MUSEUMS

The Department of Museums has under its superintendence, the Government Museum, Chennai and 20 District Museums located in the towns of Pudukkottai, Salem, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Vellore, Erode, Cuddalore, Udhagamandalam, Coimbatore, Kanniyakumari, Krishnagiri, Tirunelveli, Sivagangai, Tiruvarur, Palani, Nagappattinam, Kancheepuram, Ramanathapuram, Karur and Virudhunagar. Except the one at Pudukkottai which has been in existence from the times of the Pudukkottai State, all the others are of recent origin. The Government Museum, Chennai started in the year 1851 is an institution of repute, known for its rich collection of South Indian , prehistoric and proto-historic antiquities particularly those of Robert Bruce Foote collections and Adichanallur megalithic collections and of Buddhist, Jain and Hindu like those of Amaravati, rich collections of rare zoological and botanical specimens and for one of the earliest and best recognized Chemical Conservation and Research Laboratory for the conservation and restoration of antiquities and works of art. The District Museums have been acting as extension centres of education for general public and students. Museums as institutions are dedicated to helping people understand and appreciate the natural world, history and the record of artistic, scientific, and technological achievements. They collect objects of scientific, aesthetic or historical importance; care for them; and study, interpret and exhibit them for the purposes of public education and the advancement of knowledge. They offer many benefits to their visitors, their communities and society as a whole. They act as educational institutions offering opportunities for learning and exploration by people of diverse ages, interests, backgrounds and abilities. Museums enrich cultural life of local people and make communities more appealing places to live and to visit. Towards this end, the following main activities have been undertaken by the department of museums:- • Collection and preservation of objects. • Scientific storage and aesthetic display of objects for visitors.

• Undertaking research activities, individually or in association with other institutions and facilitate researchers and scholars by giving access to the collections and information. • Documenting the collection including cataloguing, publishing of printed catalogues, books, journals etc. • Conducting periodic exhibitions, lectures and programmes as part of educational activities. • Developing institutional capability on conservation and restoration through its Chemical Conservation and Research Laboratory. • Promoting awareness on manuscript conservation through the Manuscript Conservation Centre functioning under the auspices of the National Manuscript Mission.

The prestigious Government Museum, Chennai was given a facelift during the 151st year celebrations in the year, 2003. Some of the galleries, notably the Gallery and the Contemporary Art Gallery were brought to world standards in addition to improving the environs of the museum campus. The policy of the Government on Museums encompasses all of the important activities mentioned above. In the coming years, the department seeks to venture into new areas such as creation of theme based open air museums at potential tourist centres, instituting changes to bring about greater functional autonomy in management and revenue generation in Government Museums and reorienting the department objectives and functions to enable the department to act as an umbrella organization for co-ordinating efforts of both public and private sector in the field of museums.

NEW SCHEMES

The government have proposed to implement the schemes such as renovation of Anthropology building and refurbishment of its Galleries in Government Museum, Chennai, improving the galleries of 5 District Museums at Vellore, Salem, Madurai, Kanniyakumari and Tirunelveli, printing and reprinting of new and old Museum publications, picture post card at a total cost of Rs.55.00 lakhs during the year 2005-2006 under Part-II schemes.

DIRECTORATE OF ART AND CULTURE

By bringing the art institutions and organisations under one umbrella, a separate Directorate namely, the Directorate of Art and Culture was created in December, 1991 by the Government. Its main aim is to implement the schemes for promotion and development of arts. The organisation set up of this Directorate can be divided into three categories namely, administrative offices, art educational institutions and art development institutions. The administrative offices namely, the Directorate of Art and Culture is functioning at Chennai and the Regional Cultural Centres are functioning at six places in Tamil Nadu. These cultural centres co-ordinate, guide and inspect the cultural activities at district level and assist in carrying out the policies of the Government.

For imparting training in music,dance,instrumental music and folk arts, Government Music Colleges are functioning in four places at Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore and Thiruvaiyaru, two evening music college centres at Chennai and one at Madurai and Government District Music Schools at 17 places. For imparting training in painting, sculpture and other fine arts, Government Colleges of Fine Arts at Chennai and Kumbakonam and the Government College of Architecture and Sculpture at Mamallapuram are functioning. The Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram and the Tamil Nadu Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu at Chennai, the Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Manrams in 35 places throughout the State and the District Art Societies headed by the District Collectors are functioning in the districts. The Government have issued orders for opening of a Jawahar Bal Bhavan at Krishnagiri in the year 2004-2005.

REGIONAL CULTURAL CENTRES

Six Regional Cultural Centres are functioning at Kancheepuram, Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli, Salem, Madurai and Tirunelveli in this State. The Regional Cultural Centres are functioning to carry out the policies of the Government by co-ordinating, guiding and inspecting the cultural activities of the District Art Societies, the Government District Music Schools and the Jawahar Siruvar Manrams at District level. The Regional Cultural Centres headed by the Assistant Directors act independently on behalf of the Art and Culture Department and in co-ordination with the District Art Societies, the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram, the Tamil Nadu Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu, the Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Manrams and the South Zone Cultural Centre which is functioning under the Chairmanship of His Excellency, the Governor of Tamil Nadu, to organise cultural functions and impart training in arts. The Regional Cultural Centres are conducting several functions for creating an awareness and appreciation of the cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu and re-vitalisation of cultural traditions including the street with the co-operation of the District Art Societies and other cultural organisations. For this purpose, the Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs.8.50 lakhs in 2001-2002, Rs.62.99 lakhs in 2002-2003, Rs.8.00 lakhs in 2003-2004 and Rs.12.00 lakhs in the year 2004-2005. A sum of Rs.15.00 lakhs is to be sanctioned for the year 2005-2006. In the year 2004-2005, an Electronic Franking Machine at a cost of Rs.0.80 lakh and computers at a cost of Rs.3.20 lakhs have been purchased for the Directorate of Art and Culture.

DISTRICT ART SOCIETIES

The District Art Societies are functioning to preserve the rare arts, promote and propagate our traditional art forms throughout Tamil Nadu and also to identify the eminent artistes and encourage them. In Tamil Nadu, the District Art Societies are functioning in all districts with officials and non officials as members under the Chairmanship of District Collectors.

DISTRICT LEVEL AWARDS

The scheme of giving awards to 5 eminent artistes in each District, according to their age and eminence was started in the year 2002-2003. The following awards are given under this scheme.

For those who are between - ‘KALAI ILAMANI’ AWARD 18 years of age and below

For those between 19-35 years - ‘KALAI VALARMANI’ AWARD

For those between 36-50 years - ‘KALAI SUDARMANI’ AWARD

For those between 51-60 years - ‘KALAI NANMANI’ AWARD

For those above 61 years - ‘KALAI MUDUMANI’ AWARD

A Selection Committee headed by the concerned District Collector for selecting deserving artistes has been formed. This scheme is being implemented by the District Art Societies. Porkizhi amounting to Rs.2,000/-, a certificate of appreciation and a shawl amounting to Rs.500/- are given to the artiste who has been selected for award. To implement the scheme, a sum of Rs.11.12 lakhs has been sanctioned upto the year 2004-2005. A sum of Rs.3.75 lakhs is to be sanctioned for implementing the scheme in the year 2005-2006.

IDENTIFICATION CARDS

So far, the Identification Cards have been issued to 15,564 artistes, under the scheme of issuing identification cards to the various artistes which was introduced by the Government during the year 2002-

2003. Identification cards are useful to the artistes for availing financial assistance from the Government, for getting selected to the cultural programmes organised by the Government and for availing travel fare concession etc.

ART EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

1. GOVT. MUSIC COLLEGE, CHENNAI

In Government Music College, Chennai, Three-Year Diploma courses in Vocal, Violin, Veena, Mrudangam, Flute, Gadam, Kanchira, Mugarsing, Bharathanatyam, Nathaswaram, Thavil, Folk Art, Two-Year Post Diploma course in Vocal Music, Two-Year Diploma course in Nattuvangam and One-Year Diploma course in Music Teachers Training are offered. 420 students are studying in this College during the academic year 2004-2005.

2. GOVT. MUSIC COLLEGE, MADURAI

In this College, Three-Year Diploma courses in Vocal, Veena, Violin, Mrudangam, Flute, Nathaswaram, Bharathanatyam, Folk Art and One-Year Diploma course in Music Teachers Training are offered. 223 students are studying in this College during the academic year 2004-2005.

3. GOVT. MUSIC COLLEGE, COIMBATORE

In this College, Three-Year Diploma Courses in Vocal, Violin, Veena, Bharathanatyam and One-Year Diploma course in Music Teachers Training are offered. 123 students are studying in this College during the academic year 2004-2005.

4. GOVT. MUSIC COLLEGE, THIRUVAIYARU

In this College, Three-Year Diploma Courses in Vocal, Violin, Veena, Mrudangam, Bharathanatyam, Nathaswaram, Thavil and Three-Year Degree Course in Vocal Music are offered. 133 students are studying in this College during the academic year 2004-2005.

EVENING MUSIC COLLEGE CENTRES

Evening music college centres are functioning at 2 places in Chennai and one at Madurai. Two-Year Certificate courses are offered in Vocal, Veena, Violin in Thiyagarayanagar Centre at Chennai, Vocal, Veena, Violin, Mrudangam in Centre at Chennai and Vocal, Veena, Violin, Mrudangam, Bharathanatyam in Madurai Centre. Totally, 142 students are studying in these Centres during the academic year 2004-2005. During the year 2004-2005, sanction has been accorded for purchase of furniture at a cost of Rs.1.00 lakh for the use of students of Chennai Government Music College and for purchase of colour television and furniture at a cost of Rs.1.85 lakhs for the ladies hostel at Chennai, Government Music College. A sum of Rs.10.00 lakhs has been sanctioned for the construction of additional class rooms to the Government Music College at Madurai and the work is nearing completion. A sum of Rs.1.00 lakh has been sanctioned to the Tamil Nadu Government Music College at Thiruvaiyaru for the purchase of music books and musical instruments and a sum of Rs.10.66 lakhs has been sanctioned for acquiring land measuring 10.67 acres from Thanjavur Chatram Administration for construction of college building.

GOVERNMENT DISTRICT MUSIC SCHOOLS

Government District Music Schools are functioning at 17 places namely, Tirunelveli, Tiruchirappalli, Salem, Pudukkottai, Tiruvarur, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Perambalur, Thoothukkudi, Kancheepuram, Tiruvannamalai, Sivagangai, Krishnagiri, Sirkazhi, Karur, Erode and Ramanathapuram. In these District Music Schools, Three-Year Certificate Courses in Vocal Music, Bharathanatyam, Nathaswaram, Thavil and Thevaram are offered. 1187 students are studying in District Music Schools during the academic year 2004-2005. A sum

of Rs.2.50 lakhs has been sanctioned for the purchase of musical instruments and a sum of Rs.1.70 lakhs for purchase of music books and steel almirahs to Government District Music Schools in the year 2004-2005. For the benefit of the students studying in Government District Music Schools, a sum of Rs.1.70 lakhs has been sanctioned for conducting lecture cum demonstration programmes. A sum of Rs.1.00 lakh has been sanctioned for the publication of text book for the use of students in Government District Music Schools.

GOVERNMENT FINE ARTS COLLEGES

1. GOVERNMENT COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS, CHENNAI

In this College, Four-Year Degree courses and Two-Year Post Graduate Degree courses in the following disciplines are taught :-

Degree Courses:

1. Industrial Design in Ceramic 2. Industrial Design in Textile

3. Visual Communication Design 4. Painting 5. Sculpture 6. Print Making

Post Graduate Degree Courses:

1. Painting 2. Visual Communication Design 3. Industrial Design in Ceramic 4. Industrial Design in Textile

A pass in plus two examination is the minimum educational qualification for admission to degree courses in this College. This College holds the pride by having been started 154 years ago. All the syllabus of this College are approved by the Madras University. 512 students are studying in this College during the academic year 2004-2005.

2. GOVERNMENT COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS, KUMBAKONAM

In this College, Four Year Degree courses and Two Year Post Graduate Degree courses in the following disciplines are taught :-

Degree Courses:

1. Painting 2. Visual Communication Design 3. Sculpture

Post Graduate Degree Courses:

1. Painting 2. Sculpture

A pass in +2 examination is the minimum educational qualification for admission to degree courses in this College. All the syllabus of this College are approved by the Tiruchirappalli Bharathidasan University. 304 students are studying in this College during the academic year 2004-2005.

During the year 2004-2005, a sum of Rs.10.40 lakhs has been sanctioned for purchase of computers to the students of Government Colleges of Fine Arts at Chennai and Kumbakonam. A sum of Rs.5.00 lakhs has been sanctioned for the purchase of machineries and equipments and a sum of Rs.4.00 lakhs has been sanctioned for purchase of free drawing materials to the Government College of Fine Arts at Chennai. A sum of Rs. 10.00 lakhs has been sanctioned for special repairs and reconstruction of the existing buildings at Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai. For modernizing the photo section of the Government College of Fine Arts at Kumbakonam, a sum of Rs.2.00 lakhs for the purchase of photographic equipments has been sanctioned.

GOVERNMENT COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE AND SCULPTURE, MAMALLAPURAM

The Government College of Architecture and Sculpture is functioning at Mamallapuram since the year 1957. A Four-Year degree course is offered in this college since the year 2000-2001. B.Tech in Traditional Architecture, B.F.A in Traditional Sculpture and B.F.A in Traditional Drawing and Painting are offered. 142 students are studying in this college during the academic year 2004-2005.

During the year 2004-2005, a sum of Rs. 6.40 lakhs has been sanctioned for the purchase of computer and a sum of Rs.2.00 lakhs for the purchase of furniture for the benefit of students of the Government College of Architecture and Sculpture at Mamallapuram.

KALAI KAVIRI COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS, TIRUCHIRAPPALLI

The Kalai Kaviri College of Fine Arts in Tiruchirappalli is a Private College receiving grant in aid from the Government. The administrative control of this College was brought under the control of the Department of Art and Culture in the year 2000-2001. Grants to this college are being released through the Directorate of Collegiate Education.

Five-Year integrated Degree courses, Three-Year Degree courses, Two-Year Post Graduate Degree courses in the following disciplines are offered in this College:-

Five-Year integrated Degree Courses:

1. Bharathanatyam 2. Vocal Music 3. Violin 4. Veena 5. Mrudangam.

A pass in 10th standard is the minimum educational qualification for admission to these courses. Three-Year Degree Courses:

1. Bharathanatyam 2. Vocal Music 3. Violin 4. Veena 5. Mrudangam

A pass in 12th standard is the minimum educational qualification for these courses.

Two-Year Post Graduate Degree Courses:

1. Bharathanatyam 2. Vocal Music 3. Violin 4. Veena

5. Mrudangam

In addition to this, full time and part time Ph.D courses in Bharathanatyam and Vocal Music are offered. 257 students are studying in this College during the academic year 2004-2005.

RAGA RESEARCH CENTRE

The Raga Research Centre was instituted by the Government of Tamil Nadu in the year 1992 for making continuous research on Ragas and their impacts. Kalaimamani Thiru. Kunnakkudi Vaidyanathan has been appointed as the President of this Centre by the Government. A sum of Rs.5.00 lakhs has been given as grant to the Raga Research Centre in the year 2004-2005. Seminars are conducted in every month by the Raga Research Centre with the experts in music, physicians and research scholars, to find out the medicinal values of selected Ragas for the benefit of the public. Such seminars which were usually held only at Chennai have since been organised in other Districts like Tiruchirappalli, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Tirunelveli etc., under the title ‘RAGA VAIBHAVAM’ by co-ordinating Research Scholars and Musicians during the year 2004-2005 for the benefit of the local people. The proceedings have been photographed and video taped and more than one hundred video tapes are being preserved.

SOUTH ZONE CULTURAL CENTRE, THANJAVUR

A sum of Rs.25.00 lakhs in the year 2003-2004 and Rs. 25.00 lakhs in the year 2004-2005, totally, a sum of Rs.50.00 lakhs has been given to the Corpus Fund of South Zone Cultural Centre, Thanjavur which is functioning under the chairmanship of His Excellency, the Governor of Tamil Nadu. So far, a sum of Rs.200.00 lakhs was given by the Government of Tamil Nadu to the corpus fund of South Zone Cultural Centre. A sum of Rs.2.00 Crores for construction of building to the South Zone Cultural Centre and 25 acres of land at a cost of Rs.1.54 Crores have also been given by the Government of Tamil Nadu. The South Zone Cultural Centre on its own and by allocating funds through the Department of Art and Culture, conducts cultural programmes in Tamil Nadu. A sum of Rs.14.26 lakhs was allotted in the year 2004-2005 to the Department of Art and Culture by the South Zone Cultural Centre and by utilising the amount, Art festivals viz. Tamilisai Vizha, Folk Arts, Tribal Arts, Tamilisai Moovar Vizha, Mayiladuthurai Moovar Vizha, Youth Arts Festival, Saaral Vizha, Ilanthalir Kalai Vizha, training in folk art, street play, painting and drawing and Inter State cultural exchange programme for the students of Jawahar Bal Bhavans are conducted in Chennai and other Districts.

TAMILNADU EYAL ISAI NATAKA MANRAM

To carryout the objectives of the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi at State level and also for the development and fostering of traditional Tamil Arts, the Tamil Nadu Sangeet Nataka Sangam which was established by the Government of Tamil Nadu in the year 1955 was renamed as Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram in the year 1973. This organisation is executing several schemes from the grants sanctioned by the State Government.

1. SCHEMES OF CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

The main activities of the Manram consists of exchange of cultural troupes between the States, sanctioning of monthly financial assistance to the indigent artistes, sanctioning of family maintenance grant to the families of deceased famous artistes, encouraging talented budding artistes by means of providing opportunities for their performances through the various cultural organisations of Tamil Nadu, conferring the State Award of “Kalaimamani” on the artistes for their yeomen service to the enrichment of performing arts, extending grants to professional drama troupes for production and staging of Tamil dramas depicting our ancient culture and

heritage, sanctioning of grants for publication of rare books in the field of art and culture, releasing of grants to voluntary cultural organisations towards the commemorative festival of savants, documentation of extinguishing rare forms of traditional arts to enable the future generation to know about them, recording and preserving of music programmes of the senior artistes and encouraging research on our folk arts and traditional classical fine arts.

2. CONFERMENT OF KALAIMAMANI AWARD

With a view to felicitating the famous artistes who are serving in a commendable manner in the field of performing arts, the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram is conferring “Kalaimamani” the State Award on them. So far, 1259 artistes have been honoured with the Kalaimamani Award. In the function organised for conferring Kalaimamani award, portraits of 272 eminent deceased artistes in various art disciplines have been unveiled. At the “Kalaimamani” award investiture ceremonies, Porkizhi (Cash Award) has been awarded to senior Kalaimamani artistes who are in indigent circumstances. In this way, Porkizhi was given totally to 190 artistes, during the year 1974-75 to 1986-87 to 147 artistes at the rate of Rs.1000/- and in the year 1990-91 to 1993-94 to 17 artistes at the rate of Rs.5000/- and in the year 1994-95 to 1998-99 to 13 artistes at the rate of Rs.10,000/- and in the years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 to 13 artistes at the rate of Rs.15,000/-. With a view to encourage and felicitate the voluntary cultural organisations and splendid performing drama troupes, so far 24 cultural organisations and 16 drama troupes were awarded Shields and Rolling Shields.

3. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO INDIGENT ARTISTES

Under the scheme of financial assistance to the aged famous artistes and men of letters who are now in indigent circumstances, a sum of Rs.500/- per month is given as financial assistance. Under the scheme, financial assistance has been sanctioned to 500 indigent artistes during the year 2004-2005. Including this, so far, orders have been issued for sanction of financial assistance to 7063 indigent artistes.

4. FAMILY MAINTENANCE GRANT TO THE FAMILIES OF DECEASED FAMOUS ARTISTES

The bereaved families of the deceased artistes are given family maintenance grant. Under this scheme, during the year 1986 to 1991, 88 families at the rate of Rs.2000/- and in the year 1992 to 1997, 77 families at the rate of Rs.3000/- and from the year 1998 to 2003 , 81 families at the rate of Rs.5000/- and by the enhancement of the family maintenance grant of Rs.5000/- to 6000/-, 32 families have benefitted in the year 2004-2005. So far, 278 bereaved families of the deceased artistes have benefitted.

5. INTER-STATE CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMME

To create opportunities for the people in different parts of India, to know about the arts and cultural heritage and also to promote the sense of national integration, the scheme known as Inter-State Cultural Exchange Programme is being implemented by the Manram on behalf of the Government of Tamil Nadu, with the co-ordination of Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi on behalf of the Government of India. Under this scheme, so far, 81 cultural troupes from other States have visited the Tamil Nadu and 83 cultural troupes of Tamil Nadu have visited other States. Action has been initiated to exchange the cultural troupes with West Bengal in the year 2004-2005.

6. ENCOURAGEMENT OF TALENTED YOUNG ARTISTES

With a view to providing an introduction to the budding artistes who have been trained in the Art field of Bharathanatyam, Classical Vocal and Instrumental Music, etc., the Manram is extending grant to the successfully running Voluntary Cultural Organisations of Tamil Nadu for arranging the performances of the young artistes. 1662 young artistes have benefitted under the scheme upto the year 2003-2004. Under this scheme, during the

year 2004-2005, 29 artistes have been selected by an expert committees and arrangements have been made to perform their programmes through selected voluntary cultural organisations.

7. GRANTS TO FOLK ARTISTES / TROUPES FOR PURCHASE OF MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AND

The Manram is extending grants to folk artistes and troupes for the purchase of costumes and musical instruments. Under this scheme, a sum of Rs.750/- is given to each folk artiste and Rs.2500/- to each troupe. So far, 1425 folk artistes / troupes have been benefitted.

8. GRANTS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF NEW DRAMAS

Under the scheme of grants to Drama troupes for the production and staging of new Tamil dramas based on Tamil art and culture, so far 42 Tamil Dramas have been produced and staged with the grants-in-aid of the Manram.

9. GRANTS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF NEW DANCE-DRAMAS

Under the scheme of grants to dance-drama troupes for the production and staging of new Tamil dance dramas based on Tamil literature and culture, grants are given to dance troupes for the production and staging of new dance-dramas. During the year 2004-2005, grants have been extended by the Manram to Chennai “Vipanchee” troupe for the production of new dance-drama “Jaya Sakthi” and to the Srirangam Bharathanatyalaya for “Panbu Malar” dance-drama. These two dance-dramas have been staged at Chennai on 19th and 20th November, 2004.

10. GRANTS FOR THE PUBLICATION OF RARE BOOKS ON ARTS

Financial assistance has been sanctioned to bringout books on art. Under this scheme, 103 books have been published with the grants of the Manram. 11. CULTURAL FESTIVALS

In order to create an awareness on our extinguishing traditional folk art forms among our younger generation and also to provide sufficient programme opportunities to folk artistes, the Manram is organising folk art festivals. The Manram is also organising functions such as commemoration of deceased famous artistes, Salangai Vizha, Mupperum Kalai Vizha, Nataka Vizha, Natya Vizha and Saaral Vizha at Courtallam. Salangai Vizha was conducted at Chennai from 08.06.2004 to 10.06.2004. Under the scheme of organising Tamil Cultural Festivals in other States,Tamil Cultural Festivals have been conducted at Cannanore on 09.06.2004, at Vadakara on 10.06.2004 and at Paiyanur on 11.6.2004 in State and in Vijayanagaram, Rajamundiri, Vijayawada and Nellore in Andhrapradesh State from 1st to 4th February,2005. Saaral Vizha has been organised from 27.07.2004 to 29.07.2004 in Courtallam with the co-ordination of administration. “Ezhu Mahankalin Ezhuchimigu Kalai Vizha” has been conducted at Chennai from 25.10.2004 to 27.10.2004 in commemoration of the deceased famous artistes of Kancheepuram Naina Pillai, Veenai Dhanammal, Maharajapuram Viswanatha Iyer, Pudukkottai Dakshinamurthi Pillai, Kumbakonam Rajamanickam Pillai, M.M.Dhandapani Desikar, Thiruvaiyaru Annasami Bagavathar. “Kandhar Shasti Kalai Vizha” has been conducted in a grand manner with the co-ordination of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department at Thiruchendur on 12.11.2004, at Thirupparankundram on 13.11.2004, at Pazhamuthircholai on 14.11.2004, at Palani on 15.11.2004, at Swamimalai on 16.11.2004 and at Thiruthani on 17.11.2004. Under the scheme of conducting cultural programmes at tourist places of Tamil Nadu, cultural programmes have been conducted at Hosur in on 30.12.2004 with the co-ordination of the Department of Tourism on the occasion of Flower Show. From the grant of Rs.9.00 lakhs allotted for organising Folk Arts Festivals in all the Districts of

Tamil Nadu, initially, the Folk Arts Festival has been conducted in a grand manner at Pudukkottai on 5th February,2005. Efforts are on to conduct such festivals in other districts.

The Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram in co-ordination with the Directorate of Art and Culture, the Tamil Nadu Government Music College, Chennai and the Raga Research Centre organised a prayer meeting on 18.01.2005 for those who have lost their lives by the Tsunami disaster. Othuvar Moorthigal, Musicians and Vedic Scholars have participated in that programme.

The Manram is extending grants to Voluntary Cultural Organisations for various art projects.

TAMIL NADU OVIA NUNKALAI KUZHU, CHENNAI

The Tamil Nadu Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu was established by the Government of Tamil Nadu in the year 1975 for preserving, promoting and propagating fine arts such as Painting, Sculpture and Graphics and for encouraging the artists and to work in co-ordination with the Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi. The various schemes of the Kuzhu are implemented with the grant-in-aid sanctioned by the State Government.

SCHEME OF CONFERRING ‘KALAICHEMMAL’ AWARDS

‘KALAICHEMMAL’ awards are conferred on the eminent artists of Tamil Nadu in recognition of their meritorious service in the fields of Traditional and Contemporary Arts with a cash award of Rs.20,000/- each and a citation plaque. So far, 5 eminent artists in Traditional field and 36 in Contemporary field have been conferred with this title.

SCHEME OF GIVING AWARDS FOR CONDUCTING STATE LEVEL EXHIBITION OF TRADITIONAL ART

State Level Exhibitions of Traditional Art are conducted by the Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu and artists are being encouraged. Exhibition Award of Rs.5000/- is given for each outstanding creation. So far, 43 artists were given the Exhibition Awards.

SCHEME OF GIVING AWARDS FOR CONDUCTING STATE LEVEL EXHIBITION OF CONTEMPORARY ART

State Level Exhibitions of Contemporary Art is conducted by the Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu and artists are being encouraged. Exhibition Award of Rs.15,000/- is given for each outstanding creation to the participating “senior artists” who have completed 30 years of age and exhibition award of Rs.5000/- is given for each outstanding creation to the participating “junior artists” who have not completed 30 years of age. So far, 249 artists were given the contemporary art Exhibition Awards.

SCHEME OF GIVING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO ARTISTS FOR CONDUCTING ONE MAN SHOWS OR GROUP SHOWS

Financial assistance of Rs.5000/- per exhibition is given to the artists in Tamil Nadu to conduct their exhibitions either individually or collectively as a group. So far, financial assistance was given to 137 artists for conducting their ONE MAN SHOWS and to 10 Group of Artists for conducting their GROUP SHOWS.

SCHEME OF AWARDING SCHOLARSHIPS TO YOUNG ARTISTS WHO STUDY FINE ARTS

For encouraging the students of Fine Arts Colleges at Chennai and Kumbakonam, Scholarship of Rs.5,000/- to the final year Post Graduate students and Rs. 3,000/- to the best final year degree students is given. So far, 418 Degree Students and 39 Post Graduate Students were given scholarships.

ART GALLERIES AT DISTRICTS

Two Art Galleries of Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu – one at Ettins Salai in Udhagamandalam and another at the Office of the Assistant Director of Regional Cultural Centre, Madurai are functioning, where art works of eminent artists of Tamil Nadu are displayed for the view of public and tourists.

PUBLISHING “NUNKALAI” ART MAGAZINE

For the benefit of art lovers, “NUNKALAI”, a bi-lingual art magazine which contains articles highlighting special features of fine arts of Tamil Nadu is being published by Tamil Nadu Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu. So far, 24 issues have been brought out.

SCHEME OF CONDUCTING ART EXHIBITIONS AT DISTRICTS

In order to encourage local artists, art exhibitions are conducted jointly with 6 Regional Cultural Centres, for which the Kuzhu has enhanced the funds from Rs,10,000/- to Rs.15,000/- per Centre from the year 2003-2004. By organising art exhibitions, seminars etc., in the Districts, artists are honoured with awards. Art exhibitions and seminars were conducted in Ramanathapuram, Thoothukkudi, Kancheepuram, Tiruchirappalli, Salem and Thanjavur in the year 2003 and in Tirunelveli, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Kancheepuram, Thanjavur and Coimbatore in the year 2004. Further, students who participate in art competitions are encouraged and given prizes. These events also kindle awareness among the general public about fine arts.

CONDUCTING TRAINING CLASSES IN FINE ARTS

Training classes in fine arts are being conducted at the campus of Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai on Sundays to those who are interested in learning fine arts. By paying a fee of Rs.600/- for beginners’ course and Rs.900/- for advanced course, the aspirants can join the classes and benefit. In the two spells at six months training course conducted in the year 2004, 59 aspirants in advanced course and 129 aspirants in beginners' course were trained. In the first Six Month Course commenced from January,2005, 24 aspirants in the beginners' course and 25 aspirants in advanced course have been receiving training.

TAMIL NADU JAWAHAR SIRUVAR MANRAM, CHENNAI

The Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Manram which was established in the year 1979 at Chennai is functioning well. The aim of this institution is to give cultural training and develop the art talents of children who are in the age group of five to sixteen years.

In Tamil Nadu, Jawahar Siruvar Manrams are functioning in 35 places at 23 places as District Jawahar Siruvar Manrams, in 10 places as Jawahar Siruvar Manram Extension Centres and in two places as Jawahar Siruvar Manram Rural Centres. These Centres are functioning in the following places :-

1. DISTRICT JAWAHAR SIRUVAR MANRAMS Chennai, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Udhagamandalam, Coimbatore, Tiruchirappalli, Cuddalore, Nagercoil, Thanjavur, Kancheepuram, Sivagangai, Tirunelveli, Salem, Ramanathapuram, Dindugal, Dharmapuri, Theni, Vellore, Tiruvallur, Erode, Thiruvarur, Virudhunagar and Villupuram.

Orders have been issued for establishing a Jawahar Bal Bhavan in Krishnagiri in the year 2004-2005.

2. JAWAHAR SIRUVAR MANRAM EXTENSION CENTRES Perambalur, Thanjavur, Kulithalai, Karur, Chennai, Madurai, Thoothukkudi, Nagapattinam, Thiruvannamalai and Namakkal.

3. JAWAHAR SIRUVAR MANRAM RURAL CENTRES Pon-Pudupatti at and Madurai Ellis Nagar. These Siruvar Manrams are implementing schemes with the grant in aid of Government.

Part time training in the following disciplines are given in Siruvar Manrams :- 1) Bharathanatyam 11) Harmonium - Key Board 2) Folkdance 12) Veena 3) Craft 13) Drums 4) Vocal Music 14) Bands 5) Drama 15) Tailoring 6) Gymnastics 16) Drawing 7) Mrudangam 17) Screen Printing 8) Tabla 18) Flute 9) Karate 19) Yoga 10) Computer 20)

At Chennai, training is given for six days in a week in 18 disciplines, at District Jawahar Siruvar Manram and the Extension Centres, training is given for three days in a week in four kinds of disciplines and at Rural centres, training is given for three days in a week in two disciplines in the evenings. During the year 2004-2005, 9500 children are getting training in all the Jawahar Siruvar Manrams in Tamil Nadu. Children libraries are functioning in all Jawahar Siruvar Manrams except in two Rural Jawahar Siruvar Manrams.

PARTICIPATION IN FOREIGN COUNTRY CULTURAL PROGRAMMES

Selvan Anantharaman from Erode Jawahar Siruvar Manram and Selvi Ramapriya from Tiruchirappalli Jawahar Siruvar Manram were choosen by the National Bal Bhavan at New Delhi to participate in the festival held at China from 29.07.2004 to 02.08.2004 and these two children have performed Vocal Music and Violin respectively in the festival.

Selvi V. Subathra from the Tiruchirappalli Bal Bhavan participated in the International Integration Culture and Environment function held at Mangolia from 22.07.2004 to 01.08.2004 and performed of Tamil Nadu.

PARTICIPATION IN OTHER STATE PROGRAMMES

i) SOUTH ZONAL LEVEL BAL SHREE SELECTION

In the month of September, 2004, 56 children from Tamil Nadu Siruvar Manrams participated in the South Zonal level Bal Shree selection organised by the National Bal Bhavan at Pondicherry Jawahar Bal Bhavan. In this competition, 15 children were selected and they had participated in the National level Bal Shree selection camp held at the National Bal Bhavan, New Delhi during the month of December, 2004.

ii) GYMNASTIC COMPETITION

A girl from the Chennai Jawahar Siruvar Manram participated in the Gymnastic competition held at Thiruvananthapuram on 9th and 10th in October 2004, a boy from the Chennai Jawahar Siruvar Manram participated in the Junior National Gymnastic Championship held at Chandigarh from 12th to 16th of November, 2004 and two girls from the Chennai Jawahar Siruvar Manram participated in the Senior National Gymnastic Championship held from 27.12.2004 to 31.12.2004 at Pune in Maharashtra State. iii) NATIONAL CHILDREN'S CAMP

The National Bal Bhavan, New Delhi organised National Children's Camp from 11th to 20th November, 2004. 42 children from Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Manram participated in this camp and performed cultural progammes. iv) CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMME

A Cultural Exchange Camp was organised by the South Zone Cultural Centre, Thanjavur at Padalkar in Punjab State on 19th and 20th November, 2004. 20 children from the Jawahar Siruvar Manram, Pudukkottai participated in this camp and performed various dances of Tamil Nadu. 16 children from Chennai, Kancheepuram and Thanjavur Bal Bhavans have participated in cultural exchange programme held at Bhuvaneswar in Orissa State on 05.03.05 and 06.03.05. Under this scheme, the children from the Bal Bhavan had given performances in Tiruchirappalli and Salem in February, 2005. 7 children from Pudukkottai Bal Bhavan participated in the cultural exchange programme held at Shimoga in State and performed the traditional dances of Tamil Nadu in February, 2005.

v) NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CAMP

In the Young National Environmentalist camp organised by the National Bal Bhavan, New Delhi at Raipur in Chattisgarh State from 27th to 30 th December, 2004, eight children from Tamil Nadu, two each from Chennai, Madurai, Kancheepuram, and Pudukkottai Jawahar Siruvar Manrams participated and exposed their talents.

STATE LEVEL SCHEMES

I. SUMMER / WINTER CAMPS

Summer cultural training camp in Dance, Drama, Vocal Music, Drawing, Art and Craft was conducted for 100 children from all the Jawahar Siruvar Manrams of Tamil Nadu at Yercaud from 15th to 24th May, 2004 and 100 children participated in the winter special training camp held at Tirunelveli from 25.12.2004 to 02.01.2005.

II. CULTURAL TOUR

To encourage the artistic interest among children, 100 children were taken for a cultural tour to places such as Lady Seat, Gents Seat, Children's Park, Deer Park, Lake, Servarayan Temple and Rajeswari Temple situated at Yercaud on 23rd May, 2004.

On 01.01.2005, 100 children were taken for a cultural tour to places such as Papanasam, Agasthiyar Falls, Servalar Dam, Kariyar Dam and Nellaiyappar Temple situated at Tirunelveli.

III) GYMNASTIC COMPETITION

The Tamil Nadu Gymnastic Association organised a State level Gymnastic competition at Salem on 16th and 17th of October, 2004. 15 children from the Chennai Jawahar Siruvar Manram participated in this competition and won shields and certificates.

The Jawahar Siruvar Manram in coordination with the Tamil Nadu Gymnastic Association has organised a State level Gymnastic competition for 100 children at Kumbakonam in on 29.01.2005 and 30.01.2005.

iv) DISTRICT / STATE LEVEL CULTURAL COMPETITION

A cultural competition in Vocal Music, Dance and Drawing was organised in all the districts of Tamil Nadu for the age group between 5 to 8, 9 to 12, and 13 to 16. A State level cultural competition has been conducted for the district level first prize winners of the age group between 9 to 12 and 13 to 16 at Madurai on 4th February, 2005. State level winners were given the prizes and certificates.

v) SILAMBATTAM COMPETITION

A Silambattam competition was organized by the Tamil Nadu Silambattam Association at Rajapalayam in from 28th to 30th May, 2004. In this competition, 17 children from Chennai,Tiruvallur, Madurai, Salem, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur and Tirunelveli Jawahar Siruvar Manrams participated and won many prizes and certificates.

25 children from the Chennai Jawahar Siruvar Manram participated and won many prizes and certificates in the Silambattam competition organised by the Silambattam Association at Chennai on 18.7.04.

The State Silambattam Association in coordination with the Jawahar Siruvar Manram, organised a State level Silambattam competition from 11th to 13th February, 2005 for 100 children at Tindivanam in Villupuram district.

vi) KARATE COMPETITION

The Jawahar Siriuvar Manram in coordination with the State Karate Do-Association organised Karate competition for 100 children of Jawahar Siruvar Manram functioning all over Tamil Nadu at Chennai on 20th February, 2005.

vii) DANCE ARANGETRAM

In the month of April 2004, Dance Arangetram was organised for three economically backward children of the Tirunelveli Siruvar Manram to encourage dance talents among the economically backward children. Similarly, this year dance arangetram would be arranged for three children of the Kancheepuram Jawahar Siruvar Manram.

REGIONAL LEVEL SCHEMES

CULTURAL TRAINING CAMPS

A free cultural training camp for children was conducted in Kancheepuram, Salem, Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli, Tirunelveli and Madurai Zonal Jawahar Siruvar Manrams and in Chennai Jawahar Siruvar Manram during summer. 700 children have participated and benefitted by this scheme.

CHENNAI DISTRICT LEVEL SCHEMES

1. FREE CULTURAL TRAINING CAMP IN SUMMER At Chennai Jawahar Siruvar Manram, free training was conducted for children in 18 disciplines of activities from 14th April to 29th May, 2004. 1419 children have benefitted by this training. 151 children have benefitted in the cultural training camp organized from 16.04.2004 to 29.05.2004 at Chennai Jawahar Siruvar Manram Extension Centre.

2. DISTRICT LEVEL CULTURAL COMPETITION level cultural competition in Vocal Music, Drawing and Dance was conducted in the month of November, 2004. 414 children from 76 schools participated in this competition.

3. CRAFT WORKSHOP A craft workshop has been organized on 2nd February 2005 for 75 children 5 students each from 15 schools.

BAL SHREE AWARD Every year, the prestigious Bal Shree Award is given by His Excellency, the President of India to children who excel their creativity in the field of performing Art, Creative Art, Creative Innovative Science and Creative Writing. In the year 2004, 15 children selected from Tamil Nadu participated in the National level Bal Shree selection competition held at New Delhi. Among these children from Chennai, Selvi Saathivika has won the Bal Shree Award for Performing Art, Selvi Vishala Mishra for Creative Science, Selvan Janarthanan for Creative Art (Physically handicapped), Selvi R.Deepthi from Madurai has won the Bal Shree award for Creative writing. These children would receive the award from His Excellency, the President of India.

NEW SCHEMES During the year 2005-2006, it has been proposed to implement the new schemes such as purchase of Xerox machines to the Regional Cultural Centres at Salem and Tirunelveli, purchase of musical instruments and steeI almirahs for Government Music Colleges, purchase of computers to the Government Music Colleges at Madurai, Coimbatore and Thiruvaiyaru, establishment of audio video library for Madurai and Coimbatore Music Colleges, construction of class rooms and office rooms for Thiruvaiyaru Government Music College, purchase of computers and musical instruments and setting up of audio video library for 17 Government District Music Schools, purchase of computers, accessories and L.C.D (Liquid Crystal Display) projectors for Government Colleges of Fine Arts, Chennai and Kumbakonam, conducting of art festivals, special repair and reconstruction works in the existing building of Government College of Fine Arts at Kumbakonam, purchase of computer for establishing computer centre, setting up of audio video library at Government College of Architecture and Sculpture, Mamallapuram, an extension of the existing Art Gallery at Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram, production and staging of dance dramas on the rare and important scenes in Tamil literature through the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram, conducting of young artist camp through the Tamil Nadu Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu, purchase of Xerox machine and fax machine for the Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Manram and conducting of summer camps at Chennai and Regional Cultural centres at a cost of Rs.100.36 lakhs under Part-II schemes.

The Department of Art and Culture is taking all effective steps to create awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage and traditional art forms in Tamil Nadu.

C.Ve.SHANMUGAM Minister for Education and Commercial Taxes