Jharkhand is primarily a tribal state and is known for its folk art. What steps have been taken to preserve the rich folk culture of the state?

Anirban Mitra, Sonari, Jamshedpur

We have several programmes to promote the folk culture of Jharkhand. We organise programmes such as music and dance competitions at various places. Last November, we organised a state-level selection of folk artistes for statehood day celebrations.

This provided an opportunity for artistes to display their talent. We have also advertised for information regarding various artistes, which will be compiled at a later stage.

Does the government have any proposals to introduce classical music in schools so that the younger generation has an idea of our rich cultural heritage?

Devendra Ojha, Kutchery Road, Ranchi

Though we feel that the younger generation should learn about India’s rich culture heritage, we do not have any proposal to introduce teaching of classical music in schools.

The idea is to involve students in cultural activities. Keeping that in mind, we organise competitions, workshops and exhibitions. We also encourage students to take part in youth festivals.

The Union government has directed the education department to include cultural input and training in the educational curriculum.

Even after two years of coming into existence, the state government has not constituted a Sangeet Natak Akademi. Why is there a delay and by when will it be constituted?

Anshuman Pandey, Sarita Vihar, Jamsehdpur

We are in the final stages of constituting a Sangeet Natak Akademi. The delay is procedural, as it involves the creation of new posts.

At present, the matter is with the administrative post creation committee that is headed by the chief secretary. The matter will be sent to the cabinet for final approval. I think the process should be completed within a few weeks.

Does the state government propose to hold a national youth festival next year?

Alok Srivastava, Hinoo, Ranchi

The Union ministry of culture would decide the venue for the national youth festival. Last year, we had requested the Centre to organise the festival in Jharkhand. But it could not materialise and finally it was held in Kerala.

This year we have not sent any such request to the Centre.

The state government had announced the building of a sports complex. What progress has been made on the project?

Shankar Prasad, Ratu Road, Ranchi

The sports complex will be built in the proposed Greater Ranchi township near Ranchi University.

We had sent the letter to Ranchi Regional Development Authority in this regard. But there has not been a final decision from the urban development department.