Deadline: 31-Jul-2026
The India Foundation for the Arts is inviting proposals under its Kali Kalisu programme to support arts-integrated learning projects in Karnataka government schools. The initiative promotes student-centered education using arts such as theater, music, visual arts, folklore, and storytelling to enhance curriculum-based learning and social awareness. Selected projects receive up to ₹2,00,000 funding for a 15-month implementation period.
Programme Overview
This funding opportunity supports innovative arts-based education projects in government schools across Karnataka. It integrates artistic practices into classroom learning to improve engagement, creativity, and experiential education.
The programme is part of the India Foundation for the Arts Kali Kalisu initiative.
Core Objective
To transform classroom learning by embedding arts into education, making learning:
- Student-centered
- Experiential
- Culturally rooted
- Community-connected
- Creativity-driven
Key Focus Areas
Projects should integrate one or more of the following:
Arts and Creative Practices
- Theater and drama
- Music and song
- Visual arts
- Storytelling
- Folklore
- Photography
- Film
- Literature
Educational Themes
- Creativity development
- Social justice awareness
- Environmental awareness
- Research and inquiry skills
- Local cultural knowledge
Implementation Context
- Government schools in Karnataka
- Approval required from State Department of Education, Research and Training
- Projects must complement school curriculum
- Emphasis on experiential and participatory learning
Who Can Participate
Only individual Indian nationals are eligible.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be an Indian citizen (PIO/OCI not eligible)
- Must hold valid identity proof:
- Aadhaar Card OR
- Voter ID OR
- Indian Passport
- Must have a PAN card
- Applications must be submitted by individuals (not organizations)
Collaboration Rules
- Collaborators allowed only if they are Indian nationals
- Includes artists, educators, and practitioners in arts services
Project Design Requirements
Mandatory Features
- Integration of at least one art form into learning
- Student participation and engagement
- Involvement of teachers and school community
- Inclusion of parents and local stakeholders
- Use of local cultural and artistic resources
Expected Outcomes
- Improved student engagement
- Enhanced creativity and expression
- Connection between curriculum and lived experience
- Awareness of social and environmental issues
- Stronger school-community relationships
Project Duration and Funding
Duration
- Fixed duration: 15 months
Funding Support
- Maximum grant: ₹2,00,000
- Self-financing allowance: up to ₹70,000
Types of Eligible Projects
- Curriculum-linked arts education modules
- Short-term or long-term creative interventions
- Community-based arts learning activities
- Experimental and innovative teaching methods using arts
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process
- Develop an arts-integrated education proposal
- Select relevant art forms aligned with learning goals
- Design student-centered learning activities
- Identify Karnataka government schools for implementation
- Include teachers, parents, and community roles
- Prepare budget including self-financing component
- Submit application under the Kali Kalisu programme
- Await review and approval
Tips for Strong Applications
- Align arts activities with curriculum outcomes
- Use local and traditional art forms
- Ensure strong student participation
- Clearly define learning outcomes
- Include measurable social/environmental awareness goals
- Build strong school-community collaboration
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Treating project as only an art workshop
- Weak curriculum linkage
- Ignoring teachers and students in design
- Lack of implementation clarity
- Poor stakeholder engagement
- Incomplete documentation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who funds this programme?
The India Foundation for the Arts under the Kali Kalisu initiative.
2. Where will projects be implemented?
Government schools in Karnataka with state education approval.
3. What is the funding amount?
Up to ₹2,00,000 per project.
4. What is the project duration?
15 months.
5. Who is eligible?
Only individual Indian nationals with valid identity documents.
6. Can organizations apply?
No, only individuals, though Indian collaborators are allowed.
7. Which art forms are included?
Theater, music, visual arts, storytelling, folklore, photography, film, and literature.
Conclusion
This initiative by the India Foundation for the Arts aims to integrate arts into education in Karnataka government schools, strengthening creativity, experiential learning, and community engagement within the formal education system.
For more information, visit India Foundation for the Arts.