National Water Awards 2026

This scheme offers financial help of up to ₹8,000 per month to master craftspersons facing difficult circumstances, Read More... supporting India's vibrant handicraft sector. Read less

Details

India's rich tradition of handicrafts is kept alive by skilled artisans. However, many master craftspersons face challenging times, especially in their old age. To support these valuable contributors, the government has introduced the 'Direct Benefit to Artisans - Supports to Artisans in Indigent Circumstances' scheme.

What Is This Scheme?

This initiative is part of the larger National Handicrafts Development Programme (NHDP) overseen by the Ministry of Textiles. Its main goal is to provide a financial safety net for artisans who are in indigent circumstances. This means it helps those who are struggling financially, particularly as they get older.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

The scheme is specifically designed for master craftspersons. These are individuals who have achieved recognition through prestigious awards like the Shilp Guru Award, National Award, Merit Certificate, State Award, or similar accolades. It aims to ensure they have a stable income source and can live with dignity.

Why This Scheme Is Important

By providing financial support, the scheme helps preserve India's invaluable handicraft heritage. It ensures that master craftspersons, who are the custodians of traditional skills, can continue their practice or live comfortably without financial worry. This support acts as a crucial boost for artisans and the handicraft sector as a whole.

Objective

This scheme offers financial help of up to ₹8,000 per month to master craftspersons facing difficult circumstances, supporting India's vibrant handicraft sector.

Benefits

State Level:

Trophies and citations are awarded to the Best State (1st, 2nd & 3rd place) and Best District in each of the five zones (Northern, Southern, Western, Eastern & North Eastern).

Individual and Institutional Level:

Trophies, citations, and cash prizes are awarded to winners in the following categories:

Best Village Panchayat
Best Urban Local Body
Best School or College
Best Industry
Best Civil Society
Best Water User Association
Best Individual for Excellence (Cash prizes: 1st - ₹2,00,000/-, 2nd - ₹1,50,000/- and 3rd - ₹1,00,000/-)
Best Institution (other than School/College) (Cash prizes: 1st - ₹2,00,000/- and 2nd - ₹1,50,000/-)

Sources and references

Guidelines

Eligibility Criteria

You must be a master craftsperson who has received the Shilp Guru Award, National Award, Merit Certificate, State Award, or any other significant award in handicrafts.
Your annual income should not have exceeded ₹1,00,000/- in the financial year just before you apply.
You should not be receiving similar financial aid from any other government scheme.
You must be at least 60 years old on the date you submit your application. If you have a disability, this age limit might be relaxed upon providing a valid certificate from the appropriate authority.

How To Apply

Applications are typically processed through the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts). While the provided details don't specify an online portal, the process involves submission of applications to the relevant field formations. Upon receipt, applications are inspected by field officers. Completed applications are then processed within 30 days. A Core Committee, based on recommendations from the Regional Director, finalizes the selection of master craftspersons for financial assistance.

Documents Required

A recent photograph.
A self-attested copy of your award certificate (from Central/State Government).
An income certificate proving your annual earnings.
A document to verify your age (like an Aadhaar card or birth certificate).
A disability certificate, if you are a differently-abled artisan.
An affidavit, duly attested by a First-Class Magistrate, in the format prescribed by the department.

Important Note: After being selected, you'll need to submit an updated income certificate and a fresh affidavit, countersigned by a First-Class Magistrate, every financial year to continue receiving the financial support.

Official Sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including the prescribed format for the affidavit and any specific application links, please refer to the official website of the Ministry of Textiles or the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts).

FAQ’s

What is the main goal behind the 'Direct Benefit to Artisans' scheme?

The primary aim of this scheme is to offer financial support to master craftspersons who are facing indigent circumstances, especially during their old age, ensuring their well-being and dignity.

Can I get money from this scheme if I'm already getting help from another government program?

No, you cannot receive benefits under this scheme if you are already getting similar financial assistance from any other source. You must choose only one.

How much money can I get through this program?

Eligible artisans can receive financial assistance of up to ₹8,000/- per month. This can be given as a monthly allowance, a lump sum payment, or both.

What happens if my income goes above ₹1,00,000/- in a year?

If your annual income exceeds ₹1,00,000/- in the preceding financial year, you might no longer be eligible for financial assistance under this scheme.

Do I need to submit my income proof and affidavit every year?

Yes, once you are selected, you must submit an updated income certificate and an affidavit, attested by a First-Class Magistrate, each financial year to keep receiving the financial support.

What exact documents do I need to submit when applying?

You need to provide your photograph, a self-attested copy of your handicrafts award certificate, an income certificate, proof of age, a disability certificate if applicable, and a notarized affidavit in the prescribed format.

How is the money sent to the artisans?

The financial assistance is directly transferred to your bank account through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Is there a minimum age to apply for this scheme?

Yes, you must be at least 60 years old on the date you apply. However, this age requirement can be relaxed if you have a disability and provide a certificate from the appropriate authority.

What is the primary aim of the 'Direct Benefit to Artisans' scheme?

The main goal is to provide financial assistance to master craftspersons in indigent circumstances to support their livelihood and welfare, especially during their old age.

Can I use the financial assistance for any personal need?

Yes, the financial assistance provided is meant to support your livelihood and welfare needs, and you are free to use it as you see fit.

How long can I continue to receive financial help?

As long as you continue to meet all the eligibility criteria and submit the required documents annually, you can keep receiving the financial assistance.

Is there a maximum amount of monthly assistance?

Yes, eligible artisans can receive financial assistance up to a maximum of ₹8,000/- per month.