The Delhi government on Wednesday unveiled a new talent hunt scheme aimed at promoting young people across the city in diverse creative fields, including singing, dancing, theatre, and digital arts. With a proposed budget of Rs 10 crore, the initiative will offer cash prizes of up to Rs 2.5 lakh and provide a competitive platform for individuals aged 16 to 35 through a four-stage selection process spanning seven categories.
Objective and Vision
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, while launching the Talent Hunt Scheme – Hauslon Ki Udaan 2026-27 from her residence in Civil Lines, stated, "The objective of the scheme is also to create an inclusive and accessible platform that encourages diversity, self-employment, and self-reliance among talented youth." She emphasized that the initiative will help promote Delhi's rich cultural heritage alongside modern creative expression. Notably, Delhi government ministers and officials worked from home on Wednesday to save fuel.
Participation and Registration
Over 25,000 participants are expected to take part at various stages of the competition. Registration is free and can be done through the official website www.delhitalenthunt.com, which went live on Wednesday. The portal will also provide registration details, programme information, and regular updates.
Categories of Competition
The scheme features seven categories. Under singing, participants can compete in classical, folk, and non-classical music. The dance category includes classical, folk, and contemporary or non-classical forms. Other categories are fine art and digital art, sculpture and pottery, music composition, instrumental music, and acting and theatre.
Selection Process
The competition follows a four-stage process:
- Stage 1: Online registration, screening, and shortlisting, with 24,500 candidates moving to the next round.
- Stage 2: 35 cluster-level competitions, each covering two assembly constituencies, to select 2,450 participants.
- Stage 3: Four zonal-level competitions where the best performers from each category are chosen.
- Stage 4: A state-level grand finale in August featuring 28 finalists.
Evaluation and Prizes
Chief Minister Gupta explained that 25% weightage in the evaluation process will come from online public voting, while the remaining 75% will be based on assessment by an expert jury comprising experienced and reputed professionals from relevant fields. Bollywood personalities are expected to attend the final event. The prize structure is as follows: first position receives Rs 2.5 lakh, second receives Rs 2 lakh, third receives Rs 1.5 lakh, and fourth receives Rs 1 lakh. All finalists will be honoured with certificates, awards, shields, and medals.
Government Reactions
Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra said the initiative would offer youth a golden opportunity to showcase their talent on a larger platform. K Mahesh, secretary of the art, culture and languages department, remarked, "This programme represents accessibility, inclusiveness, diversity, and promoting self-employment for the talented youth of Delhi."
