穆尔穆总统在印度第65届全国艺术展颁奖典礼上呼吁加大对乡村及新兴艺术家的支持

At the 65th National Exhibition of Art awards ceremony, the President highlighted the need for modern training, financial support and wider market access for traditional artists.

President Droupadi Murmu has called for greater support for traditional artists, particularly those from remote areas, urging stakeholders to expand access to training, markets and creative opportunities. She was speaking at the award ceremony of the 65th National Exhibition of Art and the 3rd Print Biennale India 2026, held in New Delhi on 21st October, 2026.

The President presented Lalit Kala Akademi awards to selected artists from the National Exhibition of Art and felicitated the Grand Prize winners and Honourable Mentions of the Print Biennale. Describing art as a reflection of India’s culture, she said it captures memories of the past, experiences of the present and aspirations for the future.

Expanding Opportunities for Artists

President Murmu emphasised that artists need more than opportunities to create. They also require financial assistance, access to wider markets and connections with art collectors to help their work reach broader audiences and secure fair value.

Her key priorities included:

• Modern training: Equipping traditional artists in remote areas with new technologies and contemporary art techniques.
• Market access: Connecting artists with buyers and collectors while encouraging the sale of artworks.
• Support for emerging talent: Creating opportunities for young artists to explore new mediums and develop their creative potential.
• Wider public engagement: Taking art beyond galleries into schools, universities, public spaces and communities.

The President also welcomed participation in the National Exhibition from across India, including major cities, smaller towns and the Northeast. She noted that the diversity of artistic perspectives reflected the breadth and evolving nature of Indian art.

Print Biennale Highlights International Exchange

Recognising international participation in the 3rd Print Biennale India 2026, Murmu said such events foster dialogue between countries, cultures and artistic traditions. Bringing artists from different backgrounds together encourages the exchange of ideas, experiences and techniques, enriching the language of art.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, and Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, were among the dignitaries associated with the occasion.

The President’s remarks underscored the importance of making artistic recognition translate into meaningful opportunities, ensuring that India’s diverse creative traditions continue to evolve while enabling artists to sustain their practice and reach wider audiences.