Putin Discusses Regional Growth and Cultural Work
In a meeting with cultural figures from the Tver region, President Vladimir Putin spoke about the need to draw both young talents and seasoned professionals to regional work sites. The announcement was conveyed by the press service of the president, emphasizing a strategic push to strengthen cultural and educational staffing across Russia’s regions.
Putin highlighted that the rollout of a high-speed railway will change daily life in the area. He noted that once the rail link is fully operational, the pace of regional life is expected to align more closely with Moscow, accelerating connections and opportunities for local communities. The president pointed to improved mobility as a catalyst for economic and social development, remarking that even cities at a distance from the capital would experience a transformation in lifestyle and access to resources.
During the discussion, regional cultural leadership shared details about ongoing efforts to attract talent. Ksenia Glinka, the Minister of Culture for the Tver Region, described the Zemstvo Cultural Worker program as a key initiative designed to bring a larger number of young specialists to the area. The program aims to create a steady pipeline of skilled professionals who can contribute to regional cultural life and educational projects, reinforcing local institutions and communities.
Glinka also stressed that experienced professionals remain in demand. Responding to the president’s call, she underscored the importance of combining fresh energy with the wisdom of seasoned practitioners to sustain and grow regional cultural programs. The collaboration between leadership and communities is framed as essential to building vibrant cultural ecosystems that serve residents and visitors alike.
It is worth recalling that Putin announced in his address to the Federal Assembly that the Zemstvo Cultural Worker program would commence in 2025. The plan envisions targeted incentives to attract talent to rural settlements and smaller towns, supporting cultural institutions, libraries, museums, and other community-based venues that enrich regional life. This forward-looking approach aligns with broader efforts to decentralize cultural resources and balance urban and rural opportunities across the country.
Under the program, a specialist who chooses to work in a village or small town can receive a one-time payment of 1 million rubles. In recognition of regional disparities and strategic needs, the same program offers enhanced support for professionals relocating to the Far East, Donbass, and Novorossiya, where the financial incentive is doubled. The policy aims to make regional service financially attractive while enabling communities to benefit from sustained cultural leadership, education, and creative projects. [citation: Kremlin press service]