(a) the details of export policy to promote Handicrafts products;
(b) whether there is good international market for Indian handicraft;
(c) the names of countries where these items are being exported;
(d) the percentage of these items exported during each of the last three years;
(e) whether the Government proposes to take any special measure for promotion of handicraft items in European countries; and
(f) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES (SHRI E.V.K.S. ELANGOVAN)
(a): For promotion of handicraft products, it has been envisaged to establish new Handicrafts Special Economic Zones (SEZs), make available duty free import entitlement of trimmings and embellishment etc. Specific funds under Market Access Initiative and Market Development Assistance Schemes would be earmarked. In addition, new towns of export excellence with a reduced threshed hold limit of Rs.250.00 crores shall be notified.
(b): Yes, Sir, there is a good international market for the export of Indian Handicrafts.
(c): The major countries where handicraft items exported are U.S.A., U.K., Germany, Australia, Canada, France, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia & Switzerland.
(d): The per-centage of export of handicraft items compared to all India export during the last three years is as under:-
2003-04 - 3.59% 2004-05 - 3.60% 2005-06 - 3.19%