(a) the details of various schemes/programmes launched for promotion and development of handicraft sector in the country;
(b) the State-wise details of the funds allocated, released and utilized in this regard during each of the last three years and the current year ; and
(c) the details of the benefits availed from the implementation of the said schemes/programmes?
MINISTER OF TEXTILES
(SMT. SMRITI ZUBIN IRANI)
(a): The Office of the Development Commissioner [Handicrafts], Government of India implements various schemes for promotion and development of handicraft sector and artisans through “National Handicraft Development Programme [NHDP]” and Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme (CHCDS) to emphasize integrated approach for development of handicraft cluster in a holistic manner. The NHDP and CHCDS have following components:
National Handicrafts Development Programme:
(i) Base Line Survey & Mobilization of Artisans under Ambedkar Hastshilp Vikas Yojana,
(ii) Design & Technology Upgradation
(iii) Human Resource Development
(iv) Direct Benefit to Artisans.
(v) Infrastructure and Technology Support.
(vi) Marketing Support & Services
(vii) Research and Development
Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme (CHCDS):
(i) Mega Cluster
(ii) Integrated Development and Promotion of Handicrafts Projects (Special Projects)
(b): The State-wise fund is not allocated. However State-wise fund sanctioned and released during last three years and current year is annexed at Annexure-I.
(c): The details of the benefits availed from the implementation of the said schemes by the handicraft artisans are reproduced below:-
i. Development of artisans clusters into professionally managed and self-reliant community enterprise on the principles of effective member participation and mutual cooperation.
ii. Upgraded artisan’s skills through development of innovative designs and prototypes products for overseas markets, and through various handicraft training programmes.
iii. Welfare measures like Health and Life insurance, recognition, extending credit facilities, supply of modern tools and equipment to the artisans etc.
iv. Financial assistance is provided to artisans to participate in domestic and international craft exhibitions/seminars in metropolitan cities/state capitals / places of tourist or commercial interest/other places.
v. Surveys and studies of important crafts and make in-depth analysis of specific aspects and problems of Handicrafts in order to generate useful inputs to aid policy planning and fine tune the ongoing initiatives.
vi. Development of world class infrastructure in the country to support handicraft production, and enhance the product quality and cost to enable it to compete in the global market.