State-Level Handicraft Exhibition begins in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: The State-level Handicraft Exhibition has commenced at IDCO Exhibition Ground today where self-help groups (SHGs) have exhibited their creations.

The primary objective of the State-level Handicraft Exhibition is to provide a dedicated platform for the marketing of products crafted by clusters and individual artisans. Organized by the Directorate of Handicrafts, the exhibition aims to empower artisans, self-help groups (SHGs), and Handicrafts Cooperative societies to showcase and sell their creations. Approximately 120 handicraft artisans from 23 districts across Odisha are participating in the exhibition, contributing to a diverse display of traditional and contemporary craft forms.

The participating districts include Keonjhar, Jajpur, Balasore, Bargarh, Khurdha, Nayagarh, Dhenkanal, Puri, Mayurbhanj, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Nabarangapur, Ganjam, Bhadrak, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Sundargarh, Bolangir, Boudh, Gajapati, Jagatsinghpur, Nuapara, and Jharsuguda. The exhibition is anticipated to generate a business turnover of Rs. 100.00 lakhs during the event.

The handicraft sector in Odisha boasts 51 different crafts practiced by over 1.60 lakh artisans, each contributing to the state’s rich cultural heritage. Recognizing their excellence, the government has honored 193 artisans with National-level Awards, including five Padma Awards and 13 Shilpigurus. Additionally, 342 artisans have received State-level Awards.

The Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts Department of the Government of Odisha actively support the growth of the handicraft sector through various initiatives. These include organizing exhibitions, providing market assistance, capacity building, skill upgradation training, supplying improved tools and equipment, facilitating bank linkage, infrastructure development, product designing and diversification, and offering marketing assistance for participation in different exhibitions.

Furthermore, design development programs engaging designers from within and outside the state are conducted in clusters to create a wide range of market-oriented products. The department has also taken steps to promote online marketing of handicraft products, aligning with the contemporary trends and preferences of consumers.