(a) the schemes being run by the Government at present for the upliftment of craftsmen;
(b) whether the Government has formulated any scheme for special recognition of craftsmen;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the State-wise fund allocated for the artisans and craftsmen during the past three years and till date?
MINISTER OF TEXTILES
(SMT. SMRITI ZUBIN IRANI)
(a): The Office of the Development Commissioner [Handicrafts], Govt. of India implements various schemes for upliftment and development of handicraft 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) & (c): To recognize the handicrafts artisans throughout the country Office of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Govt. of India has initiated a Nationwide campaign on 7th October, 2016 namely “Pahchan” to provided Aadhar linked artisans ID cards to handicrafts artisans, which will facilitate the benefits of various schemes of Govt. of India directly to them. The details of artisans recognized under Pahchan initiative state-wise is annexed at Annexure-I.
In addition to above to recognize the excellence of handicraft artisans, highly skilled artisans are selected by 3 tier selection committee and handicrafts awards are given to 10 Shilp Guru, 33 National Award and 40 National Merit Certificate every year.
(d): The state wise fund sanctioned during the past three year and current year to benefiting handicrafts artisans is enclosed at Annexure-II.