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Prosthetic Aid and Appliances for Person with Disabilities 2026

The "Living Craft Treasure Award" is Tamil Nadu's highest honour for master craftspersons aged 65 and above, Read More... recognizing their lifetime dedication to handicrafts. Read less

Details

In a bid to celebrate and support the invaluable contributions of seasoned artisans, the Tamil Nadu government, through its Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles, and Khadi Department, has established the prestigious "Living Craft Treasure Award." This award is a heartfelt recognition of master craftspersons who have dedicated their lives to preserving and advancing India's rich handicraft traditions.

What Is This Scheme?

The "Living Craft Treasure Award" is the state's top honour for excellence in handicrafts. Introduced in the 2013-2014 fiscal year, it specifically aims to acknowledge and reward craftspersons of great eminence who have reached the age of 65 or more. It's a way of saying thank you for their years of skill, dedication, and artistry.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

This award is designed for experienced artisans who are true natives of Tamil Nadu and have been actively involved in the handicraft industry within the state. The primary focus is on individuals who have crossed the age of 65, acknowledging their long and impactful careers.

Why This Scheme Is Important

This award plays a crucial role in preserving the heritage of Indian handicrafts. By honouring senior artisans, it not only provides them with recognition and financial support but also inspires younger generations to take up these traditional crafts. It ensures that invaluable skills and knowledge are passed down, keeping the essence of Indian artistry alive.

Objective

The "Living Craft Treasure Award" is Tamil Nadu's highest honour for master craftspersons aged 65 and above, recognizing their lifetime dedication to handicrafts.

Benefits

Under this scheme, the following equipment is given within a limit of ₹20,000/-.

  1. Artificial limb, crutch or calipers, tricycle, folding wheelchair to Person with Disabilities.
  2. Hearing aids and other tool assistance for mute and deaf persons.
  3. Musical instruments, brail kit for visually impaired persons.
  4. M. R. child kit for mentally challenged persons.
  5. For self-employment, hand carts, sewing machines, instruments of electric repairing, tools of cycle repairing, hair cutting kit, etc.

Sources and references

Eligibility Criteria

  1. You must be a skilled artisan.
  2. You must be a permanent resident (native) of Tamil Nadu.
  3. Your work must be within the handicraft industry in Tamil Nadu.
  4. You need to be 65 years of age or older.
  5. Your overall experience and the special contributions you've made to your craft will be key factors in the selection process.

How To Apply

To apply for the Living Craft Treasure Award, you need to follow these steps:

  1. Gather all the required documents as listed below.
  2. Ensure your application and supporting documents are on A4 size paper, numbered, and spiral-bound.
  3. Craftsmen's Service photographs should be submitted as part of your application.
  4. Submit your handicrafts for examination along with your application.
  5. The application and all accompanying documents must be submitted to the appropriate authorities. Recommendation Certificates are required, attested by Managers of Poombucar Outlets and Manufacturing Plants or respective Area Assistant Directors (Handicrafts / Craft Council).
  6. For assistance with filling out the application, you can reach out to the Managers of Poombucar sales and manufacturing plants.

Documents Required

  • A recent passport-size photograph.
  • Proof of your age.
  • Your educational certificates.
  • Certificates proving your skill qualifications.
  • Proof of your current address.
  • Your Aadhaar Card.
  • A copy of the front page of your bank passbook.
  • Photographs showcasing your work/craftsman service.
  • A certificate from a well-wisher or someone personally aware of your work.
  • An Artisan's Affidavit, specifically on a ₹20/- stamp paper, which must be attested by a First Class Criminal Judge or a Notary Public.
  • A Recommendation Certificate, attested by any of the Managers of Poombucar Outlets and Manufacturing Plants or the respective Area Assistant Directors (Handicrafts / Craft Council (Tamil Nadu/India/World) under the Office of the Development Commissioner, New Delhi.

FAQ’s

When did the "Living Craft Treasure Award" first get introduced?

The "Living Craft Treasure Award" was first introduced in the year 2013-14.

If any of my award materials get damaged during competition events, will I get compensation?

No, the management is not responsible for any damage to prize materials during competition-related activities, and no compensation will be provided.

What kind of support can I expect from managers at Poombucar sales and manufacturing plants?

Managers at Poombucar sales and manufacturing plants can help you with filling out the award applications.

What is the age requirement to apply for this award?

You must be 65 years of age or older to be eligible to apply for the Living Craft Treasure Award.

What are the key factors considered when selecting awardees?

The selection process takes into account the artisan's extensive experience and the unique contributions they have made to the handicraft profession.

Can someone who isn't from Tamil Nadu apply for this award?

No, this award is exclusively for artisans who are natives of Tamil Nadu. Those from outside the state are not eligible to apply.

What specific format should I use for my application papers?

All your application documents need to be on A4 size paper. Make sure they are numbered and then spiral-bound together.

What exactly needs to be in the artisan's affidavit when I submit my application?

Your artisan's affidavit must be made on a Rs. 20 stamp paper. It needs to be signed and attested by either a First Class Criminal Judge or a Notary Public.

How many artisans are typically chosen for the award each year?

Each year, ten artisans are selected to receive the Living Craft Treasure Award.

What is the meaning or importance of the Thamirapattiram included in the award?

The Thamirapattiram is a very important and prestigious part of the Living Craft Treasure Award.

Besides my application form, what else do I need to send?

Along with your application, you should send your handicrafts for examination, as well as any required certificates, photographs, and other specified documents.

What should I make sure is clearly stated on the nomination certificate?

The nomination certificate must clearly mention both the name of the handicraft and the name of the artisan being nominated.

How does this award stand out from other recognitions for craftspeople?

The Living Craft Treasure Award is unique because it specifically honours artisans aged 65 and above who have made significant and lasting contributions to the handicraft industry over their careers.

If I'm under 65, can I still apply for this award?

No, the eligibility criteria clearly state that only artisans aged 65 and above can apply for the Living Craft Treasure Award.

Where can I get more information about contacting the Poombucar managers?

You can contact the Poombucar sales and manufacturing plant managers directly for further details and assistance regarding the award.

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