Textile Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday asked handicraft exporters to focus on quality, design, brand promotion and packaging to boost production and outbound shipments. He also urged them to look at ways to increase the income of artisans and craftsmen.
The export of handicrafts has increased by about 30 percent to Rs 33,000 crore in 2021-22.” We need to focus on quality, design, brand promotion and packaging. There is infinite potential in the sector,” Goyal said at an awards ceremony. He said the ministry has a database of about 30-35 lakh artisans and “we need to look at ways we can change their lives”.
The minister asked the industry to come up with new and innovative ideas. However, he added that new ideas should not be linked to government subsidies, as it would not help the sector. He also said that in places like Delhi Haat and handicraft shops, new artisans should be given the opportunity to showcase their products. These places shouldn’t be cornered by a bunch of the same people year after year, he added.
