Panaji : February 11, 2026: The Director of Art and Culture invites applications for registration of Goan Maand groups from across the State under the Government’s Schemes for revival, preservation and protection of Goan Maand culture. This initiative is aimed at creating an authentic and comprehensive record of traditional Maand practices and extending structured institutional support to safeguard this important component of Goa’s intangible cultural heritage. Maand traditions form the cultural backbone of many villages and communities in Goa are traditionally practiced in temple premises, village grounds and other community spaces. These traditions sustained over generations through collective participation and oral transmission, encompass a wide range of folk forms, music, rituals and performances unique to the State. Recognizing the need to preserve these living traditions in their authentic form, the Government has decided to open registration to all genuine and interested Maand groups, subject to scrutiny. The registration process will record details of the Maand Guru / Maandeli, group members and trainees, the specific Maand tradition practiced, and its continuity within the community. Applications shall be supported by certification from peers, Senior artists or community elders, in recognition of the traditional and community based nature of Maand practices. All application received shall be scrutinized by the Committee on Maand culture constituted by the Government, to assess authenticity and eligibility in accordance with the scheme guidelines. The Government through this scheme, proposes to extend assistance subject to Scrutiny and availability of funds for purposes such as repair and maintenance of traditional musical instruments, purchase of new folk instruments, costumes, preparation and upkeep of Maand grounds, and support to maand Gurus and students undergoing training, with a view to ensuring continuity and inter – generational transmission of Maand traditions. For the purpose of financial propriety and transparency, it is clarified that any assistance under the scheme will be released only through banks accounts maintained with Nationalized / PSU Banks or Co- operative Banks. Such accounts may be in the name of the Temple Committee, Village Committee, recognized Village / Maand group, or Non- Governmental Organization (NGO), as per prevailing local and traditional practices. The prescribed registration forms will be available from February 10, 2026 at the Directorate of Art and Culture. Interested Maand groups are requested to submit their duly completed applications along with the required enclosures, on or before February 20, 2026 to the Directorate of Art and Culture, Panaji. Applications received after the stipulated date will not be considered.
