MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES (SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)
(a) & (b): The current census of handicrafts artisans including Kumhar (potter) of Odisha is still
in progress. The number of artisans of potter of Odisha shall only be known once the census is completed.
(c): The schemes of the government for promotion & development of handicraft in the country do not
envisages any direct financial assistance to artisans.
The schemes envisage providing of financial assistance to Implementing Agencies viz State Handicrafts
Corporations/Apex Societies/NGOs etc. for the promotion & development of handicrafts and the details of
financial assistance provided to these Implementing Agencies under various schemes including potters of
Odisha during the last three years is as per Annexure-I
(d): Yes, Madam. Death cases of weavers have been reported by the State Government of Andhra Pradesh.
However in case of artisans no death case have been reported.
(e): The reasons for suicide cases in case of weavers is due to poverty, family disturbance, financial
and other domestic problems. The number of such cases reported during the last three years are as under:-
Sl. No. Year Number of deaths
1. 2010 50
2. 2011 46
3. 2012 45
The step taken by the Government to ensure a dignified life for artisans/weavers and for overall
development of handicrafts and handloom is by way of Implementation of various schemes. The scheme are:-
For Handicraft Sector:-
i. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hastshilp Vikas Yojana (AHVY).
ii. Marketing & Support Service Scheme,
iii. Design and Technology Upgradation Scheme,
iv. Research and Development Scheme,
v. Human Resource Development Scheme,
vi. Handicrafts Artisans Comprehensive Welfare Scheme.
For Handloom Sector:-
i. Integrated Handloom Development Scheme.
ii. Marketing and Export Promotion Scheme.
iii. Handloom Weavers Comprehensive Welfare Scheme.
iv. Mill Gate Price Scheme.
v. Diversified Handloom Development Scheme.
vi. Revival Reform and Restructuring Package (RRR).
