The Ministry of Minority Affairs organised Lok Samvardhan Parv under the PM VIKAS Scheme at Kashmir University’s Convocation Ground. The event ran from April 5 to April 13, 2025. It showcased the beauty of minority arts, crafts and culinary heritage.
Cultural Showcase and Entrepreneurial Focus
The Parv featured over 100 artisans from 25 States and Union Territories. They displayed Paper Mâché, Sozni embroidery, Crewel Art, Pashmina shawls, Willow work, wood carving, Crochet, Kantha work, and traditional crafts from Sikkim, Punjab, Ladakh and more.
The Ministry organised workshops on marketing, export, online business, design, and sales. These sessions ran in partnership with the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH). The aim was clear. Foster an innovative entrepreneurial environment for artisans.
Regional Flavors and Community Bonds
Food featured strongly. Sixteen culinary experts from 12 States/UTs prepared regional delicacies. Attendees savored Kashmiri Wazwan and dishes from Gujarat, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Ladakh and more. The Parv highlighted culinary arts that build community bonds.
Why Lok Samvardhan Parv Matters
The event promoted indigenous arts and crafts from India’s diverse minority communities. More than 100 artisans from across the country showcased their unique talents and heritage. Visitors had the opportunity to explore essential skill-building workshops that empowered artisans with modern tools and techniques. Marketing, export strategy, design innovation, and sales training were also key areas of focus throughout the exhibition. Additionally, the celebration honored regional culinary experts, putting a spotlight on traditional heritage foods and local flavors.
Key Outcomes & Supporting Facts
The Ministry’s workshops boosted artisan skills in online and export markets. More artisans are now ready to access national and global platforms. The partnership with EPCH added credibility and reach.
The Parv officially fostered entrepreneurship among minority artisans. This aligns with PM VIKAS Scheme goals. It also echoes the Ministry’s mission to empower communities through cultural heritage.
Government Endorsement and Support
Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju provided details in a written reply in Rajya Sabha on July 21, 2025. He emphasised the Ministry’s ongoing focus on empowerment and inclusion for minority artisans.
The PM VIKAS Scheme supports such initiatives nationwide. It focuses on capacity building and sustainable growth for minority communities.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Impact
The Parv created networks across States and UTs. It built awareness about minority crafts and food heritage. It opened new channels for artisans to sell and thrive.
Next steps include scaling workshops, increasing export tie-ups and linking artisans to e-commerce platforms. Plans are also in place to record and preserve these traditions digitally.
Conclusion: Heritage Meets Opportunity
Lok Samvardhan Parv blended heritage and entrepreneurship in Srinagar. It celebrated minority traditions. It equipped artisans with skills to grow and succeed. The event truly embodied the spirit of minority empowerment under PM VIKAS Scheme.
