The training program for District Art and Culture officials of the Art, Culture, and Youth Department of the Bihar government concluded at the Dashrath Manjhi Labour Employment Study Institute in Patna. The closing ceremony began with the traditional lamp lighting, officiated by key figures including N. Vijayalakshmi, Additional Chief Secretary of the Animal and Fisheries Resources Department, and Pranav Kumar Ray, the Department’s Secretary, along with other senior dignitaries.
Vijayalakshmi, in her address, praised the District Art and Culture officials and highlighted the positive impact of the training. She expressed her delight that cultural talents from across the state, including its more remote regions, will now have greater opportunities for national and international recognition.
She underscored the importance of integrating folk and classical arts, encouraging the passing down of cultural legacies to future generations. Secretary Pranav Kumar Ray acknowledged that the intensive training program would significantly enhance the officials’ knowledge, which is crucial for successfully implementing departmental initiatives at the district level.
All participating officials received certificates and mementos during the ceremony. The trainees showcased their acquired knowledge through group PPT presentations. Presentations included topics such as engaging youth through arts (Sukanya, Munger), the evolving role of museums (Kirti Alok, Patna), cultural and economic development through film (Chandan, Darbhanga), Bihar’s folk music (Richa Verma), and the concept of ‘every house an art’ (Shyam).
Ruby, the Director of Cultural Works, encouraged the officials, emphasizing their ability to confidently manage departmental operations within their districts. Anil Kumar Singh delivered the vote of thanks. The event saw the attendance of Rana Sujit Kumar Tuntun (Internal Financial Advisor), Kahkashan (Special Officer), Arvind Ranjan Das (Film Consultant, Bihar State Film Development and Finance Corporation), Nupur Jha (Public Relations Officer, Sports Department), and many other officials and staff.