Dikhyaa Mohanty 
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced an increase in the monthly allowance provided to traditional folk artistes under Mukhyamantri Kalakar Sahayata Yojana, supporting thousands of performers dedicated to preserving Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. Speaking at the 48th State-Level Pala Sammilani held in Keonjhar, the Chief Minister declared that artists aged between 40 and 80 years will now receive Rs 3,000 a month, up from the previous Rs 2,000. For those above 80 years, the allowance has been raised to Rs 3,500 from Rs 2,500.
Over 47,000 registered artists in Odisha are anticipated to gain from this increase, many of whom are experts in Pala, a traditional folk art form that uses music, storytelling, poetry, and performance to communicate legendary stories and advance the Odia language and culture. Majhi emphasized in his speech the vital role Pala plays in preserving and advancing the Odia language. “Pala has made an immense contribution to the protection and propagation of Odia,” he stated, noting that generations of committed artists have preserved Odia folk literature.
The CM described Pala as a confluence of song, dance and impromptu poetry rooted deeply in Odisha’s spiritual and intellectual traditions. He also highlighted how Pala has historically served as a medium for social awareness, combating superstitions and inequalities while imparting lessons on truth, compassion, and ethics. Majhi urged the younger generation pursuing higher education in Odia language and culture to conduct more research on this “great folk art,” expressing confidence that renewed interest among youth would further brighten its future.
