Kohima, April 12 (DIPR): A handicrafts artisans’ conference commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar was held on April 12 at Town Hall, Jakhama. The programme organised by the office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles was graced by MLA & Advisor of Labour & Employment Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dr. TM Lotha.
Addressing the artisans gathered, Lotha pointed out that the Prime Minister has introduced many social welfare schemes in order to provide various facilities and benefits to the artisans but due to lack of awareness, artisans are unable to avail the benefits of such schemes. He also encouraged the artisans to go for commercial production and said that handicrafts from Nagaland are in high demand outside the state.
Lamenting the present situation in the State where employment in government services has become saturated, Lotha said there is need for entrepreneurship today and handicraft is one such area where the State can excel.
Also speaking on the occasion Assistant Director (Handicrafts), T. Rollee Vareishim highlighted the various schemes and loans which artisans can avail, like the Handicraft Artisans Bima Yojana (HABY). To avail these schemes, he said, one needs to first register for an artisan ID Card. He also shared the benefits of downloading the BHIM app and registering in India Handmade Bazaar Portal. He clarified that the actual birth anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar is on April 14 but due to Good Friday, the celebration was rescheduled to April 12.
