Government to Inject Rs. 1,000 Crore into Handloom and Handicraft Sector Over 5 Years

The handloom and handicraft sector are anticipated to receive an investment of Rs. 1,000 crore over the next four to five years, as disclosed by Amrit Raj, Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) at the Ministry of Textiles. Raj emphasized the government's commitment to supporting the sector, which boasts around 35 lakh artisans across the country.

During a visit to 'HGH India,' a bi-annual trade show for home, gifts, and houseware held at the India Expo Mart and Centre in Greater Noida, Raj highlighted the substantial efforts directed towards the handloom and handicraft industry. The Development Commissioner's office currently allocates approximately Rs 300 crore annually to the sector, with a primary focus on marketing and design innovation.

While acknowledging the skills of artisans, Raj underscored the need to make the sector more market-friendly, aligning with changing trends and consumer preferences. Anticipating an additional investment of around Rs. 1,000 crore in the next four to five years, she expressed confidence in the sector's growth potential.

The central government has been actively involved in enhancing the design aspect of handloom and handcrafted heritage in India. Raj noted the government's role as a bridge between design enthusiasts and master creators, emphasizing investments in further training for artisans and facilitating improved product marketing.

"We are now innovating the age-old designs to match up to an evolving consumer and the newer trends," she stated, highlighting the ongoing efforts to adapt traditional designs to contemporary consumer needs.

The 'HGH India' trade show features over 100 new exhibitors, including participants from Italy and Turkey, along with several first-time exhibitors from cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Jodhpur, Indore, Chennai, Kochi, and the Northeastern states, according to an official statement.

BS