Artists Federation calls on CM Omar, pitches for art & artist welfare measures

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 09 (STC): A delegation of the Jammu & Kashmir Music Artists Federation Srinagar, in a meeting with J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah here today placed several long-pending issues before him concerning the propagation of art and culture in Jammu & Kashmir.
The delegation was led by noted artist and cultural activist Ustaad Waheed Jeelani.
The delegation highlighted the urgent need for institutional support, revival of cultural programs, and welfare measures for the artist community, which has played a pivotal role in safeguarding the region’s unique identity.
The Chief Minister listened with keen interest and assured full government support to the artist fraternity. He emphasized that the cultural legacy of Jammu & Kashmir is one of its greatest strengths and assured the delegation that the concerns raised would be given due attention.
On this occasion, a detailed memorandum was submitted to the Chief Minister. The key points included the appointment of competent art-sensitive officers in cultural institutions, creation of scholarships and pensions for senior artists, revival of cultural hubs such as Tehzeeb Mahal, strengthening of All India Radio Srinagar and Doordarshan Srinagar, promotion of cultural tourism and exchange programs, preservation of indigenous art forms, and the formulation of a comprehensive cultural policy. The memorandum also sought the intervention of the regional government in urging the Union Ministries of I&B, Culture, and External Affairs to extend financial and institutional support to J&K’s cultural sector.
The Federation expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for his positive response and conveyed hope that under his leadership, serious steps will be taken to safeguard and promote the rich musical and cultural heritage of Jammu & Kashmir.
Notably, the meeting was held in the presence of the Chief Minister’s Advisors Nasir Aslam Wani and Mudasar Shahmiri.
The delegation of the Federation included senior artists Ustaad Abdul Rashid Hafiz, Ustaad Gulzar Ahmad Ganai, and Munir Ahmad Mir.
(Straight Talk Communications)