# Best Cultural Institution Award

The Best Cultural Institution Award, also known as the State Cultural Award for Institution, is an annual award conferred by the Department of Art and Culture of the Government of Goa. This award has been established with the purpose of acknowledging, promoting, and honoring the notable contributions made by cultural institutions in the sphere of art and culture.
By presenting this recognition, the Government of Goa seeks to provide a significant boost to cultural organizations in the region, thereby fostering an environment that nurtures and encourages emerging talents. In recognition of their eligibility, qualifying institutions receive a commemorative item as well as a financial reward amounting to ₹3 lakh (US$3,600)

## Aims

The primary objective of this award is to acknowledge, endorse, and value the institution recognized as the foremost Cultural Institution of Goa. By doing so, the aim is to provide impetus to cultural institutions in general, which will subsequently inspire other establishments within the state to actively promote and nurture cultural talents, thereby fostering an exceptional creative output.
Another essential goal is to cultivate a thriving cultural environment within the state. Additionally, this endeavor seeks to honor and commend the outstanding accomplishments of the esteemed institution deserving of such recognition.

## Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for the award require that institutions have completed a minimum of 15 years of operation, during which they must have made extraordinary contributions to the realm of Art and Culture. This recognition is reserved for institutions that have showcased exceptional achievements and have significantly influenced the artistic landscape.
Emphasis is placed on institutions engaged in Cultural Education, encompassing the provision of training in various artistic disciplines such as music, dance, drama, and fine arts. These institutions play a pivotal role in nurturing and honing the talents of aspiring artists, facilitating their artistic development.
Furthermore, cultural institutions that receive financial support from Central Government Corporations or Municipalities are also eligible to apply for the award. This provision ensures that institutions with diverse funding sources can be considered for recognition, facilitating a fair and inclusive selection process.
Once an institution has been bestowed with the award, it becomes ineligible for subsequent awards. This policy ensures a balanced and equitable distribution of recognition among different institutions over time, fostering a dynamic and evolving artistic landscape.
Moreover, it is imperative for an institution to possess a well-constituted managing body, with clearly defined powers and duties stipulated in its constitution. Additionally, the institution should enjoy a commendable reputation within the local community, serving as a testament to its unwavering dedication to promoting and supporting the arts.

## Procedure

Annually, the Department of Art and Culture issues a press release or advertisement with the purpose of inviting commendations for the award. This initiative seeks recommendations from esteemed institutions and accomplished individuals who have made significant contributions within the realm of Art & Culture. Notably, the committee responsible for overseeing this endeavor possesses the autonomy to independently acknowledge noteworthy accomplishments and put forth deserving institutions for consideration.

## Recipients

| Year | Name |
| 2008 | Gomant Vidya Niketan, Margao |
| 2009 | Konkani Bhasha Mandal, Margao |
| 2010 | Society of Pilar |
| 2011 | Xavier Centre of Historical Research |
| 2012 | Hauns Sangeet Natya Mandal, Ponda |
| 2013 | Naguesh Mahalaxmi Prasadik Natyasamaj, Bandora |
| 2014 | Goa Cultural & Social Centre, Panaji |
| 2015 | Rudreshwar, Panaji |
| 2016 | Antruz Lalitak, Bandora |
| 2017 | Dayanand Kala Kendra, Curchorem |
| 2017 | Grupo Alegria Social & Cultural Association, Tiswadi |
| 2018 | Vardambika Kala Sangh, Curti |
| 2018 | Shree Naguesh Maharudra Bhajani Mandal, Tiswadi |
| 2021 | Mahashala Kala Sangam, Marcel |
| 2022 | Pandurang Prasadik Natya Mandal, Sankhali |