Question : EXPORT OF HANDICRATS

(a) whether due to competition in world market the Government proposes new strategy for export of handicrafts in international market;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the export of handicraft items during each of the last three years;

(d) the amount of foreign exchange earned through export of handicrafts during each of the last three years;

(e) the target fixed for the current financial year for export of handicrafts; and

(f) the steps taken by the government for promotion of handicrafts in the country?

MINISTER OF TEXTILES ( SHRI SHANKERSINH VAGHELA )

(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. The future strategies of Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) and Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC) include:- focused export promotion programmes in strong markets; tapping new and unexplored markets; new product segments; diversification of product line; quality improvement; broadening base of export pockets; aggressive international marketing projects; strengthening Indian handicrafts and gifts fair and participation in fairs abroad etc.

(c) & (d): The export of handicrafts including hand-knotted carpet and the foreign exchange earned thereof during each of the last three years is as under:-

Year	Exports (Rs. In crores)
2001-02	9205.63	2002-03	10933.67	2003-04	12765.18