IMPHAL, December 20: The inaugural function of 6th HADO Crafts Bazar-2012 was held at Yaiskul Athletic ground here today.Speaking at the function, Govindas Konthoujam Minister Commerce and Industries, Government of Manipur said the amount put in by state government in handicrafts is Rs 30 lakhs, adding that efforts will be made towards increasing the amount to Rs 50 lakhs.
“It is unfortunate that a rural haat is being made in the name of an urban haat. The government of India will be pressed to make an urban haat for Imphal West district and a proposal will also be sent to the Government of India to make the haats in the notified area of Bishenpur and Thoubal,” he added.
Saying that there is a plan to construct a Gems and Jewellery park in the state, the Minister said that there are many lapses in the state and considering that it is to be a gateway under the Look East Policy, the Government would address those gaps. Adding that Manipur has 92 National Awardee Artists and craftsmen which is the highest in north east, he said that the efforts are on to increase the amount for State Awardees.
At present 18 artisans of the state is participating Mela at Kolkata and they will be given Rs 5000 each as incentives, he added.
The function was presided over by MLA of Uripok Constituency L Nandakumar Singh and attended by Assistant Director (H) of Marketing and Service Extension Centre O/o the DC Handicraft Govt of India T Rollee Vareishim, Director of Institute of Cooperative Management Kh Somarendro Singh, Deputy Manager of State Bank of India RK Loken Singh, and Functional Manager of Directorate of Commerce and Industries Govt of Manipur as guests of honour.