Team Production Award 2026

The Gen Next Competition is a Tamil Nadu government initiative to encourage young artisans to embrace and Read More... preserve traditional handicrafts, offering them recognition and rewards. Read less

Details

The traditional crafts of Tamil Nadu are a rich heritage, but they need young hands to carry them forward. The "Gen Next Competition" is a special scheme by the Tamil Nadu Government's Department of Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles & Khadi to ensure these crafts don't fade away. Launched in 2013-2014, it’s all about bringing youngsters into the world of traditional art and craftsmanship.

What Is This Scheme?

This scheme is essentially a craft competition designed specifically for young artisans in Tamil Nadu. The main goal is to inspire people below 30 years of age to take up traditional handicrafts, learn them, and keep these art forms alive for future generations.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

The scheme is targeted at aspiring and practising artisans who are natives of Tamil Nadu and are under the age of 30. It covers a wide range of traditional crafts, providing a platform for them to showcase their skills and receive recognition.

Why This Scheme Is Important

By involving younger generations, the Gen Next Competition plays a crucial role in the survival and continuation of Tamil Nadu's unique handicrafts. It provides a much-needed boost, both financially and through recognition, to young talent, ensuring that this valuable cultural legacy is passed on effectively.

Objective

The Gen Next Competition is a Tamil Nadu government initiative to encourage young artisans to embrace and preserve traditional handicrafts, offering them recognition and rewards.

Benefits

Cash Prize of ₹40,000/-.

4 gm Gold Medal.

One Thamirapattiram.

Certificate.

Sources and references

Citizen Charter (2021)

Eligibility Criteria

You must be a recognised artisan.
You must be a native of Tamil Nadu.
Your age must be below 30 years.
The competition covers 16 types of handicrafts, including Panchaloka Idols, Brass Lamps and Artifacts, Thanjavur Paintings, Wood Carvings, Stone Sculptures, Fire Clay Sculptures, Applique and Kalamkari work, Paper Pulp Toys, Weaving, Bamboo and Palm Leaf Products, Neti Work, Fiber Products, Temple Jewellery, Image Stitching Work, and other traditional handicrafts.
The examination will be conducted based on the prominence of these handicrafts in different areas. The exact centre and date for the examination will be announced later.

How To Apply

Interested artisans should submit their completed application forms.
Applications need to be sent through the Managers of Poompucar Sales and Manufacturing Plants.
The Head Office will receive these applications.
The specific centre and date for the examination will be announced later.
For further details and potential application submission points, you can contact: Department of Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles and Khadi, Government of Tamil Nadu.

Documents Required

Two passport-size photographs.
Birth Certificate (to prove age).
Educational Certificate(s).
Proof of Address: This can be your Family Card, Voter ID Card, Driving License, or Aadhaar Card.
Aadhaar Card.
Bank Account Book with your photograph.
An Artisan's Affidavit: This needs to be on a ₹20 stamp paper and attested by a First Class Criminal Judge or a Notary Public.
Recommendation Certificate: This must be attested by either a Manager of a Poompucar Outlet or Manufacturing Plant, or by the respective Area Assistant Director (Handicrafts). It can also be attested by the Craft Council (Tamil Nadu/India/World) under the Office of the Development Commissioner, New Delhi.

FAQ’s

What are the age requirements for participants?

You need to be below 30 years of age to participate in the competition. Make sure to attach your age proof with the application.

Can someone from outside Tamil Nadu apply for this competition?

No, this competition is exclusively for artisans who are native to Tamil Nadu.

What rewards do winners receive?

Winners are recognised with a cash prize of ₹2,000, a silver medal, and a certificate.

How many different types of crafts are included in the competition?

The competition features 16 different types of traditional handicrafts, covering a wide spectrum from metal and wood work to paintings and textiles.

Who can provide a recommendation for an applicant?

A recommendation can be provided by managers of Poompucar Outlets and Manufacturing Plants, or by the respective Area Assistant Directors (Handicrafts). Certifications from the Craft Council are also accepted.

Where will the competition exams be held?

The exams will take place in locations that are prominent for handicraft industries within Tamil Nadu. The specific centres and dates will be announced later.

Are there any fees to enter the competition?

No, there is no participation fee for the Gen Next Competition.

What should I do if I want to apply?

You need to fill out the application form and submit it through the Managers of Poompucar Sales and Manufacturing Plants. They will forward it to the Head Office.

Can an artisan apply for more than one craft category?

Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for each craft type, you can apply for participation in multiple categories.

Are there any specific sizes or dimensions required for the crafts?

The provided information does not mention any specific restrictions on the size or dimensions of the handicrafts.

What proof of identity and address do I need to submit?

You'll need to submit documents like your Family Card, Voter ID, Driving License, or Aadhaar Card for address proof, along with your Aadhaar Card and a Bank Account Book with a photo.

Is there any training offered before the competition?

The current information available does not mention any specific training programs provided to participants before the competition.

What is the purpose of the Artisan's Affidavit?

The Artisan's Affidavit is a sworn statement on a ₹20 stamp paper, attested by a legal authority like a First Class Criminal Judge or Notary Public, confirming your status as an artisan.

Does the scheme cover artisans from all districts of Tamil Nadu?

Yes, the scheme is open to all eligible artisans who are natives of Tamil Nadu, regardless of their district.

How many artisans get selected each year?

The scheme aims to select 150 artisans annually for the competition and awards.