Question : Promotion of Handicraft

(a) whether the Government has taken any steps to promote the traditional handicrafts and handlooms from the North Eastern Region (NER) in foreign countries through exhibitions, trade fairs, expos etc.;
(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;
(c) whether the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC) has opened any overseas office or posted representatives in Indian embassies/missions to monitor and formulate a strategy with respect to marketing of products from the said region; and
(d) if so, the details of the programmes initiated and their performance thereunder during the current year?

The Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region
[Dr. Jitendra Singh]

(a) and (b) The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation Ltd. (NEHHDC) participated in Thai International Trade Fair held at Bangkok during February 7-11, 2018 at Queen Sirikit Convention Centre. In this exhibition, NEHHDC showcased wide range of handicrafts and handlooms products from North Eastern States. The Bodoland Regional Apex Weavers & Artisans Cooperative Federation Ltd. (BRAWFED), Assam was funded by the Government for organizing a Thematic Exhibition on handicrafts of North Eastern Region at Thimphu, Bhutan for 5 days during financial year 2018-19.

(c) No Madam.

(d) Does not arise.