Only 270 got picked. That’s a 4.4% selection rate; tougher than many govt job exams. This isn’t just about paint and canvas. It’s about survival. Many of these artists come from villages. No fancy degrees. No Instagram followers. Just skill, grit, and zero safety net. President Murmu didn’t just hand out trophies. She called for support; real support; for rural artists. Because talent doesn’t vanish if you ignore it. It just starves. The culture ministry’s also pushing to sell artwork at these events. Smart move. Artists need money, not just medals. If you think art is ‘nice to have’; think again. It’s the silent engine of culture, history, and yes, even the economy. And right now, it’s running on fumes. Maybe next time you scroll past a painting, remember: behind every stroke, there’s a person fighting to be seen.