Indian minister urges exporters for upliftment of artisans

Appreciating the launch of schemes by Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) under their CSR programme, for education of children of artisans, Irani talked about its successful implementation in the North East. EPCH has also introduced an integrated programme of development of NER handicrafts and handlooms, under which support is provided for design, marketing and skill development. The scheme provides full support to education of children of artisans through open schools. 75 per cent of the expenditure is borne by EPCH and the remaining by member exporters.

The handicraft exports have witnessed year-on-year growth of 13.15 per cent in 2016-17 and has touched Rs. 24,392 crores, said Irani.

EPCH recently introduced 'Design Register' scheme which allows hassle-free registration of designs by member exporters. EPCH design services help the sector in a big way augmenting the exports of handicrafts from the country, ultimately increasing employment opportunities to artisans, said Irani.

IHGF - Delhi Fair Autumn 2017 is the world’s largest handicrafts and gifts fair that will conclude on October 16. As many as 2,980 exhibitors of home, lifestyle, fashion, textiles and furniture are participating in the fair. Over 6,000 buyers from 110 countries are visiting the fair. The trade event includes programmes to promote Foreign Direct Investment and opportunities for joint ventures for both exporters and importers. A symposium on 'Investment Opportunities in Handicrafts Sector' is being organised at the fair that will give opportunities for overseas buyers to bring technical know-how, investment and marketing networks to form joint ventures for promoting Indian handicrafts in the world market. (RR)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India