Exhibitions dot Indian handloom & handicraft landscape

During the current year (up to July, 2013), 242 domestic events and participation in 16 international events have been approved. During the last three years, participation in 68 international handloom events have been approved and spot orders worth Rs.67.41 crore have been booked.

Government is implementing Integrated Scheme for Powerloom Sector Development (ISPSD). Under the said scheme, 42 Buyer Seller Meet (BSM) were organized across the country during last three years for Marketing Development of powerloom products. The powerloom weavers are participating in BSM to market their products at regional and cluster level in the country.

The ISPSD is under approval for remaining 12th plan period. However, one BSM has been conducted during current year.

The Government proposes to organize more such exhibitions in future depending upon the number of viable proposals received under the above schemes and availability of funds.

Government provides financial assistance to various Implementing Agencies like Central/State Handicrafts Corporations/Apex Societies and NGOs who are working with artisans for organizing exhibitions in the country to provide a marketing platform for the products developed by artisans.

For International exhibition/fairs, the artisans who have been conferred Shilp Guru Award and National Awards are considered for participation in fairs/festival abroad subject to condition that their sales turnover is more than Rs.10.00 lakhs per annum or have exported handicrafts goods worth minimum of Rs.2.00 lakhs in the preceding year, provided total exports in proceeding year is not more than Rs.50.00 lakhs.

Government provides financial assistance to various Implementing Agencies like Central/State Handicrafts Corporation/Apex Societies/NGOs for promotion & development of handicraft in the country under the following scheme:-

i. Baba Sahib 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.

Ministry of Textiles