In the last three years, Gujarat’s handicrafts have gained significant recognition. A total of 28 products, including Kutch embroidery and Patan patola, have received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This tag is vital for promoting local artisans and their crafts on a global scale.
The Gujarat government has been actively supporting rural and urban youth in finding employment through various initiatives. Since 1992, the ‘Industrial Extension Cottage’ (Indext-C) has been established under the guidance of the Commissioner of Cottage and Rural Industries. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Minister Balvantsinh Rajput lead these efforts.
During 2022-2023, a total of 234 fairs and exhibitions were organised. These events helped sell products worth over ₹124 crores through approximately 24,689 artisans across Gujarat and other states. Notably, Indext-C has facilitated 205 fairs in Gujarat, including Ahmedabad Haat and Bhuj Haat, where artisans sold goods valued at ₹99 crores. Outside the state, 29 fairs enabled sales worth ₹25.87 crores.
The government aims to provide opportunities for every individual to utilise their skills and improve their livelihoods. Various initiatives are in place to promote the economic upliftment of artisans associated with handicrafts and khadi industries. These include providing marketing platforms for selling products and implementing new projects to enhance artisans’ social standing.
Indext-C has identified artisans, issued Artisan Cards, and organised fairs and exhibitions for marketing their products. Additionally, training for skill development and distribution of toolkits are part of the support provided to artisans.
The GI tag, a mark of authenticity, is crucial for the local handicrafts industry. It not only enhances the prestige of the products but also encourages local industries. The GI tag has been awarded to a variety of handicraft products, including Kutch embroidery, Tangaliya shawls, Surat zari work, Jamnagar bandhani, and more.
In 2023, 11 artisans were honoured with the Craftwise Award for their exceptional contributions to the handicrafts sector. The government has organised fairs across various states, including Karnataka, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi, to promote Gujarat’s handicrafts.
Furthermore, efforts are ongoing to establish permanent haats in Vadodara, Siddhpur, and Rajkot, along with a PM Ekta Mall in Surat. These initiatives aim to create consistent marketing platforms for artisans to sell their products directly to consumers.
In conclusion, the efforts of the Gujarat government, along with the recognition of handicrafts through the GI tag, are paving the way for the revival and growth of traditional crafts. This not only supports local artisans but also strengthens the cultural heritage of Gujarat. The continuous promotion of handicrafts through exhibitions and fairs helps to keep the rich traditions alive, ensuring that artisans can sustain their livelihoods while contributing to the economy.
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