New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS): Two selected artists and two writers will interact with officials of various cultural institutions and prominent artists as part of Rashtrapati Bhavan's in-residence scheme, an official statement said Tuesday.

Gangtok-based Sikkim Sahitya Samman 2013 winner Yishey Doma Bhutia, Telugu writer Vempalli Gangadhar, Chennai-based artist Rahool Saksena and Pratap Sudhir Morey from Mumbai commenced their programme at Rashtrapati Bhavan Monday.

"...(These) artists and writers will interact with the office bearers of Sahitya Akademi, Lalit Kala Akademi, National Gallery of Modern Arts, prominent artists and writers, and also visit historical places of Delhi, museums and art galleries," a statement said.

They will stay at Rashtrapati Bhavan till Sep 26.

This is among the initiatives by President Pranab Mukherjee on completing two years in office July 25. Other activities included the inauguration of Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum and opening of the Knowledge Hub.

Kolkata-based artist Jogen Chowdhury was the first artist in-residence at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The 'In-Residence' programme for writers, artists was launched by Mukherjee Dec 11, 2013, with a view to encourage senior artists as well as young and upcoming individuals by facilitating them stay close to nature in the picturesque and serene surroundings of Rashtrapati Bhavan.