(a) the number of handicraft units lying closed in the country, especially in Gujarat, State-wise;
(b) the number of workers left unemployed;
(c) the details thereof, State-wise; and
(d) the steps being taken by the Government to provide alternate employment to these workers?
MINISTER OF TEXTILES ( SHRI SHANKERSINH VAGHELA )
(a): Handicrafts being an unorganized and dispersed sector, majority of the artisans are self-employed and work in the informal sector. No closure of handicrafts units in the country, including the State of Gujarat has been reported to the Government.
(b) to (d): Do not arise.