Ministry of Culture Junior Fellowship Interview Schedule 2026

The Ministry of Culture has released a crucial notification regarding the Expert Committee Meeting (virtual interviews) for candidates shortlisted for the Junior Fellowships under the ‘Scheme of Award of Junior Fellowships to Outstanding Artists in the Fields of Culture’ for the batch year 2025-26. This notification provides the complete schedule, including dates, timings, and essential virtual meeting details for all shortlisted candidates.

Important Update: Junior Fellowship Interview Schedule

This notification serves as a comprehensive guide for all shortlisted candidates, detailing their virtual interview schedule and necessary access information. Candidates are advised to carefully note their respective dates and timings to ensure timely participation.

Detailed Interview Schedule

The virtual interviews are scheduled across several days, with specific time slots allocated for different groups of candidates. It is imperative for each candidate to check their individual entry in the table below to ascertain their exact interview slot, Webex link, and meeting credentials.

The interviews are categorized by the ‘Field’ and ‘Sub-Field’ of the arts, covering a wide spectrum of cultural disciplines. Please find your name and corresponding details in the comprehensive list below.

Interview Schedule Overview (Sample Dates & Times)

Shortlisted Candidates List

The PDF contains a detailed list of over 1500 candidates. Due to the extensive length, we are providing a summary of the fields and sub-fields for which candidates have been shortlisted:

• Classical Music: Carnatic Instrument, Carnatic Vocal, Hindustani Instrument, Hindustani Vocal
• Dance & Dance Music: Bharatnatyam, Chhau Dance, Gaudiya Nritya, Kathak Dance, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri Dance, Mohiniattam, Odissi Dance, Sattriya Dance, Thang-ta
• Folk Traditional & Indigenous Art: Folk Dance, Folk Music, Folk Song, Folk Theatre, Others
• Literature: Assamese, Bengali, English, Hindi, Kashmiri, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Oriya, Sanskrit, Telugu
• New Area: Cultural Economics, Epigraphy, Indology, Management of Heritage and Art & Cultural Institutions, Sociology of Culture, Studies relating to application of S&T, remote sensing, space technology and Information Technology in Archaeological Sites, Materials, Ceramics Metal Crafts etc., New Sub Area – 1, Others
• Theatre: Mime, Puppetry, Theatre
• Visual Art: Graphics, Painting, Sculpture

For the complete list of individual candidates, their enrollment numbers, dates of birth, full addresses, and specific Webex meeting details (link, meeting number, and password), candidates must refer to the original PDF document.

Key Instructions for Candidates

• Virtual Interview Platform: All interviews will be conducted virtually via Cisco Webex.
• Access Details: Candidates must use the specific Webex Software link, Meeting No., and Password provided against their name in the official notification.
• Preparation: Ensure a stable internet connection, a quiet environment, and a functional webcam and microphone.
• Login Time: It is advisable to join the virtual meeting at least 15-20 minutes before the scheduled time to resolve any technical issues.
• Documents: While not explicitly mentioned for virtual interviews, it is always prudent to keep all original documents and their photocopies ready for verification if requested.
• Professionalism: Dress in formal attire and maintain professional decorum throughout the interview.

About the Junior Fellowship Scheme

The Junior Fellowship Scheme for Outstanding Artists in the Fields of Culture is an initiative by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. It aims to encourage young and promising artists by providing financial assistance to pursue advanced training or undertake projects in various cultural fields. This scheme plays a vital role in preserving, promoting, and developing India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage by supporting emerging talent.

Preparation Tips for Virtual Interviews

Attending a virtual interview requires specific preparation to ensure a smooth and impactful experience. Here are some key tips:

Technical Readiness

• Internet Connection: Test your internet speed and ensure a stable connection. Have a backup plan (e.g., mobile hotspot).
• Device Check: Ensure your laptop/desktop is fully charged or plugged in. Test your webcam and microphone.
• Platform Familiarity: If you’re new to Cisco Webex, download and test the application beforehand. Familiarize yourself with its features.
• Background: Choose a neutral, clutter-free background. Good lighting is essential, preferably facing a window.

Content & Presentation

• Research: Be well-versed with the objectives of the Junior Fellowship scheme and the Ministry of Culture.
• Portfolio/Work: Be prepared to discuss your artistic journey, previous works, and the project proposal for which you applied for the fellowship.
• Communication: Practice clear and concise communication. Maintain eye contact with the camera to simulate direct interaction.
• Mock Interviews: Conduct a mock interview with a friend or mentor to get feedback on your presentation and answers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the purpose of this notification?

A1: This notification provides the list of candidates shortlisted for the Junior Fellowship under the ‘Scheme of Award of Junior Fellowships to Outstanding Artists in the Fields of Culture’ for the 2025-26 batch, along with their virtual interview schedule and access details.

Q2: What is the mode of the Expert Committee Meeting?

A2: The Expert Committee Meeting will be conducted virtually via Cisco Webex software.

Q3: What are the important dates for these interviews?

A3: The interviews are scheduled from February 16, 2026, to February 28, 2026, and March 2, 2026. Specific dates and time slots for individual candidates are mentioned in the detailed schedule.

Q4: What do I need to attend the virtual interview?

A4: You need a stable internet connection, a computer/laptop with a functional webcam and microphone, the Cisco Webex application, and the specific Webex Software link, Meeting No., and Password provided in the notification against your name.

Q5: Is there any specific dress code for the virtual interview?

A5: While not explicitly stated, it is always advisable to dress in formal or semi-formal attire to maintain a professional appearance for the interview.

Q6: What if I face technical issues during the interview?

A6: It is recommended to join the meeting 15-20 minutes early to address any technical issues. If problems persist during the interview, try to communicate them immediately to the committee members through the chat function or by rejoining the meeting.

Q7: Will a separate call letter be issued?

A7: This notification itself serves as the interview call letter, providing all necessary details. No separate physical call letter may be issued unless specified otherwise.

Q8: What should I prepare for the interview?

A8: Be prepared to discuss your artistic background, achievements, the details of your proposed project for the fellowship, and your understanding of the cultural field you specialize in. Also, be ready for questions related to your motivation and future aspirations.