The Indian Minister of Culture Smt. Chandresh Kumari Katoch has said that Ministry of Culture, as a part of its objectives, does work for preserving all art forms including South Indian art forms.
In a written reply in the Lok Sabha today she said, South Indian Tribal and Folk Art forms are being continuously preserved and promoted through the South Zone Cultural Centre (SZCC) based at Thanjavur, through their mandated schemes.
The artists are given various cross-zonal platforms as well. SZCC has also documented South Indian Art forms by producing 18 documentary films on pottery, martial arts, puppetry, naatakam, tribal dances, folk songs, dances, theatre etc. which not only highlight lesser known art forms but also generate revenue for the artists. Further, Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai has also endeavoured to preserve some South Indian art forms.
The Minister said, the Ministry of Culture works towards the preservation and promotion through its autonomous organizations. The Ministry does not directly deal with or through the State Governments.