Recognising craft, livelihoods and cultural continuity
At a ceremony held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, President Murmu honoured master craftspersons, designers and innovators who have kept centuries-old techniques alive while adapting to modern markets. She emphasised that handicrafts preserve cultural memory and bind communities across generations.
“Art reflects our memories of the past, experiences of the present, and aspirations for the future,” the President said, noting that artists and craftspersons carry the “fragrance of the country’s soil” in their works.
Scale of the sector and social impact
The President highlighted the handicraft sector as a major source of livelihood, employing over 3.2 million people across India predominantly in rural and remote areas. By decentralising income generation, the sector supports inclusive development and social empowerment.
Murmu underlined the sector’s role in women’s empowerment: women constitute roughly 68% of the handicraft workforce, bringing both economic independence and social recognition to communities.
Sustainability, GI tags and ODOP
Describing the industry’s environmental edge, the President said handicrafts depend largely on local, renewable materials and have a low-carbon footprint qualities that align with global sustainable-lifestyle trends.
She urged artisans and stakeholders to pursue Geographical Indication (GI) tags to strengthen product identity and credibility in national and international markets. The President also praised the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative for lifting regional handicraft identities on the global stage.
Opportunities for young designers and entrepreneurs
Pointing to rising demand for Indian handicrafts worldwide, Murmu called out the sector’s potential to incubate startups and designer-led enterprises. She said young entrepreneurs and designers can add value through design innovation, market linkages and responsible manufacturing.
The Ministry of Textiles and allied schemes were referenced as critical enablers for training, market access and recognition — including the Shilp Guru awards and national awards that were conferred during the ceremony. (See official release from the Press Information Bureau.)
Event highlights
The ceremony honoured dozens of artisans and designers across categories, including recipients of the Shilp Guru distinction. The awards recognise excellence in craft preservation, innovation, quality and the ability to connect traditional skills with contemporary demand.
