New Initiative for Folk Arts Education
School for Traditional Folk Arts in Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu has announced a dedicated training school for traditional folk-art forms at Valayangulam village in Thiruparankundram, Madurai. The decision strengthens the state’s long-standing commitment to safeguarding indigenous art forms. The initiative aims to provide structured training for students who want to specialise in these cultural traditions.
Role of Artistes in Policy Support
The proposal for the school was accepted after a request by Padma Shri awardee R. Velmurugan, a noted Parai artiste. His contribution to folk music helped highlight the need for formal spaces where young learners can train under experts. Static GK fact: The Parai is one of the oldest percussion instruments of Tamil culture.
Academic Expansion and Funding Increase
A new postgraduate course in folk arts will begin in 2026–27, marking a major academic expansion in the state’s arts education sector. At the same time, financial assistance to the university will increase from ₹3 crore to ₹5 crore, supporting infrastructure and curriculum development. Static GK fact: Tamil Nadu consistently ranks among the top states in India in public expenditure on higher education.
Boost Through Skill Development Initiatives
The Naan Mudhalvan scheme, originally launched to enhance employability skills, will now be expanded for music and fine arts students. This expansion is expected to give structured training in digital tools, performance management, and creative industry skills. Static GK Tip: The Naan Mudhalvan scheme was launched in 2022 to train youth in over 200 skill categories.
Recognition of Eminent Personalities
During the third convocation of Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University, honorary doctorates were presented to veteran actor Sivakumar and acclaimed artist Chandru. The recognition highlights Tamil Nadu’s tradition of celebrating contributors to fine arts. The Chief Minister, who is the ex-officio Chancellor of the university, presided over the event.
Strengthening Arts Institutions
The new school and curriculum expansions reflect the state’s larger push to integrate folk arts into mainstream higher education. They are expected to give young artists access to structured training, research avenues, and cultural preservation efforts. Static GK fact: Madurai is known as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, renowned for its folk music, temple arts, and festivals.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
School for Traditional Folk Arts in Tamil Nadu:
| Topic | Detail |
| Location of new school | Valayangulam village, Thiruparankundram, Madurai |
| Reason for establishment | Request from Parai artiste and Padma Shri awardee R. Velmurugan |
| Funding increase | From ₹3 crore to ₹5 crore |
| New PG course start year | 2026–27 |
| Scheme expansion | Naan Mudhalvan for music and fine arts students |
| Honorees | Actor Sivakumar and artist Chandru |
| Occasion | Third convocation of Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University |
| CM’s role | Ex-officio Chancellor of the university |
| Purpose of new school | Preservation and promotion of traditional folk arts |
| State focus | Strengthening cultural education and skill development |
