Shilpotsav kicks off at Capital's Dilli Haat

Shilpotsav, a handicraft and folk artisan event kicks off at Dilli Haat in the capital city drawing a huge number of artisans from across the country. Organised by the Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, the event aims to promote artisans thereby the economic empowerment of poorest of poor among Dalits, SCs and STs.

Taking note of the importance of small scale industry in the development of economy, especially in a developing country like India where a large part of population is still in rural areas, it is imperative for the government to support the development of the industry as a major revenue generator.

Meira Kumar, the Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment at the inaugural of “Shilpotsav – 2008”, stressed on the greater participation of female artisans and possibilities of arranging participation of artisans in such Exhibitions overseas.

During the 14-day mega event from September 23 to October 06, the “Shilpotsav – 2008” will showcase scores of product made by artisans/handicraft persons assisted under various developmental schemes of Apex Corporations under the Ministry at Dilli Haat. Over 2000 artisans/handicraft persons are expected to participate in this festival.

On the inaugural day a cultural programme from Kashmir and Punjab was performed by the artists sponsored by Jammu & Kashmir State Women’s Development Corporations and Punjab Backward Classes Land Development and Finance Corporation, the State Channelising Agencies (SCAs) of National Backward Classes Finance & Development Corporation (NBCFDC).

Persons with disability will also perform during cultural programmes to be organised during the event on various days.

A variety of products will be showcased such as handloom, brass-ware, paper & wooden craft, bamboo, jute, copra products, pottery, artificial jewellery, stone carving, wall hangings etc.

The Apex Corporations works under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment i.e. National Backward Classes Finance & Development Corporation (NBCFDC), & Development Corporation (NHFDC) and National Safai Karamchari Finance & Development Corporation (NSKFDC) to provide concessional financial assistance to the target group for their self-employment ventures.

These Corporations are also providing marketing platform to the beneficiaries so that they can have an exposure of bigger markets like Dilli Haat, IITF, Surajkund etc. from time to time.