The Hindu Business Line : UP leads in export of handicrafts

INDIA has exported handicrafts worth Rs 20,000 crore last year and Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the leading State in terms of the quantum of exports, said Mr C. George Varghese, Assistant Director (Handicrafts), Union Ministry of Textiles.

Kerala's handicrafts account for only a meagre Rs 60 crore and of this, most of the products are furniture, he told reporters at the demonstration-cum-exhibition of traditional artefacts and handicrafts organised by Socio Economic Development Association (SEDA) and Union Ministry of Textiles at the Womens Association Hall here.

Mr Varghese said that the Ministry had given shape to an Integrated Craft Cluster Development Programme under the Ambedhkar Hastshilp Vikas Yojana as part of its initiative to promote crafts.

The objective of developing such clusters is to convert them into centres of excellence so as to create export-oriented products. Self-help groups are given training at design-development workshops, where traditional master craftsmen take classes.

In Kerala, he said, the focus will be on natural fibres, embroidery and bell metal and about 30 clusters have been identified in this regard. Financial assistance in the form of loans, insurance and other welfare schemes would be provided besides the working capital.

SEDA is a voluntary organisation working for socio-economic development of villages, and craftsmen in particular. About 300 women in four villages of Kanyakumari district are engaged in the production of lace and embroidery products, according to Mr J. Asir Packia Singh, its Director.

A variety of products made out of shell and birch of coconut, beaded chains, gemstone paintings done by craftsmen under the Khadi and Village Industries Corporation, idols of Nataraja, Ganesha etc carved out of wood are on display in the exhibition.

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