Centre,Bengal to set up complex for idol makers at Rs 21 cr

Kolkata, Jul 31 (UNI) The Centre and the West Bengal government will set up an integrated complex for idol-making and other Durga Puja related activities at a cost of Rs 21 crore.

Speaking at a seminar on ''Employment Generation and Poverty Alleviation' here, Secretary Urban Employment and Poverty Alleviation under Union Government Ranjit Issar said here today that in order to preserve the art of idol making, the state government has submitted a report for developing a complex where artisans would have enough space to make idols, design ornaments and decorations etc.

The Centre would provide fifty per cent of the total cost of the project, Mr Issar said.

HUDCO, a state agency, has already been appointed to prepare an appraisal report for the project.

''These artisans work in small rooms in Kumartuli area in the state and hardly have proper infrastructure, light and space to work comfortably,'' he said.

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