Gov to inaugurate Natl Handcrafts Expo-2006

Guwahati, Oct 24: Asom Governor Lt Gen(Retd) Ajai Singh will inaugurate the National Handicrafts Expo-2006 here tomorrow, where over 150 artisians from different parts of the country will exhibit their artifacts.

Talking to newsmen here today, Union Ministry of Textile Regional Director (Handicraft) S Dkhar said the purpose of organising such expos is to give scope to the artisans of all over the country and sell their artifats.

It would help to uplift their socio-economic condition, he said.

He said, ''The ministry has introduced Artisians Credit Card to help the Craftsmen. No gaurantee will be required for such credit cards and an artisian will get maximum of Rs 25,000 through such card.'' About 500 credit cards has already been issued in the North East Region.

''There will be a hut for artisians at Dimapur which is likely to be inaugurated by December for about 150 artisians, he said.

Mr Dkhar further said that his ministry has earmarked Rs 500 crores for development of handicrafts in the North East during the next five year plan.

Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) under Union Ministry of Textiles, who is the nodal agency for the promotion, development and marketing of handcrafts, is organising Handicrafts Expo in collaboration with Industries and Trade Fair Association of Asom.

UNI