Nizhny Novgorod Writers Join Russia's Pushkin Card Cultural Programme in 2026
The Nizhny Novgorod branch of the Russian Union of Writers (RUW) will join the federal Pushkin Card programme in September 2026. This move follows the appointment of new leaders, Zakhar Prilepkin as head and Nadezhda Shevelilova as director of the local branch. The initiative aims to expand cultural opportunities for students in the region. The Pushkin Card, which provides 5,000 rubles annually for cultural activities, will fund special workshops for school and university students. These sessions will be available on a paid basis, but the card cannot be used for book publishing costs. Over 80 cultural institutions in the Nizhny Novgorod region already participate in the programme.
The RUW branch’s involvement begins with the new academic year. Meanwhile, regional members of the union can still publish their work for free through the existing quota system. Nationally, Vladimir Medvedinsky has led the RUW as chairman and first secretary since his election in 2025.
The programme’s expansion will give students more access to literary and creative workshops. The Pushkin Card’s funding remains focused on cultural engagement, excluding publishing expenses. The RUW branch’s participation starts in September 2026 under its newly appointed leadership.
