IMPHAL, February 27: Director of Commerce and Industries, government of Manipur on Thursday distributed outstanding subsidies to craftspersons under the scheme of modernisation of handicrafts and assistance to individual artisans for the year 2013-2014.
The function was held at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound, Imphal at 11.30 am.
A cash of Rs 20,000 each along with certificates were distributed to ten state awardees of different trades, Rs 8,000 each to 13 merit award craftsmen and Rs 5,000 to 23 inspiration awardees with certificates.
Govindas Konthoujam, minister of commerce and industries, sericulture, veterinary and animal husbandry attended the function as chief guest, B John Tlangtinkhuma, director of commerce and industries as president and V Tualthang, additional director of the same department as the guest of honour.
During the function, Govindas Konthoujam said around four lakh artisans are involved in handloom and handicrafts sector.
A state awarded artisan who has attained the age of 60 years can apply for the scheme of guru sishya parampara, the minister mentioned.
He also made an appeal to all artisans to design their products handy so that foreign tourist can pick it out easily.
V Tualthang said that handloom and handicraft should be encouraged as it will improve the economy of the state and observed that Manipur is not lacking behind in handicraft products in north east India.
He continued that Manipur has always been participating in the India International Trade Fair and the state stalls have always attracted a huge crowd.
He further said that people of the state have good ideas and creative skills and further appealed to the gathering artisans to apply new technology in making their products.