Delhi Govt honours handicraft artisans

New Delhi, May 23 (UNI) The Delhi government today honoured several artisans for their outstanding work in handicrafts.

The awards were given away to artisans specialising in wood-carving, terracotta, metal engraving, paper-mache, carpet weaving, Madhubani art, hand embroidery, etc, by Delhi Industry Minister Mangat Ram Singhal for the years 2003-04 and 2004-05.

While three State Awards, five State Merit Awards and ten consolation awards were given for 2003-4, for the year 2004-05, artisans recieved two State Awards, five State Merit Awards and 10 consolation awards.

Chief Secretary of Delhi Shri Ramesh Narayanswami, Secretary and Commissioner (Industry) Shri Narendra Kumar, senior officers of Industry Department and awardees were present on the occasion.

Congratulating the awardees, Mr Singhal said the artisans have made immense contribution to keep the priceless legacy of Indian handicrafts alive and have produced moving crafts. He said despite major competition in this field in the international market, these artisans have preserved this art. He said the Indian export has major contribution from these artisans.

The Minister said the State Government had been making tireless efforts to promote the handicraft industry.

Apart from organising exhibitions at various places to promote the sale of different products manufactured by these artisans, he said the Government has formulated various schemes for the promotion of this art.

UNI