The National Council for Handloom & Handicraft Development (NCHHD), an apex body representing 30 State and Central Government Handicraft & Handloom Corporations, successfully organized a seminar/workshop titled “Roadmap for Marketing of SFURTI Cluster Products, Compliances & Best Practices” at MP Bhawan, Chanakyapuri. The event drew participation from a host of distinguished guests and experts, making it a resounding success.
The seminar was inaugurated with a welcome address by Mr. Shantmanu, Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution. Notable attendees included Mr. Ratnesh Kumar Jha, Executive Director (Public Grievances), Ministry of Railways; Mr. P.K. Singh, Under Secretary, Ministry of MSME; Ms. Swati Sharma, Joint Secretary (RL-II), Ministry of Rural Development; and Mr. V.P. Thakur, Regional Director (NRO), Office of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, among others. The presence of these high-ranking officials underscored the event’s importance and the government’s commitment to the development of the handicrafts sector.
The workshop’s primary focus was on developing effective marketing strategies for SFURTI (Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries) cluster products, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and sharing best practices for sustainable growth. The sessions covered a wide range of topics, including innovation in marketing, sustainability of clusters, and overcoming challenges to maintain long-term viability.
Several experts shared their insights, including Mr. Mohd. Fazal, Technical Advisor & Subject Expert, and Mr. Nitin Puri and Mr. Tarun Bedi from PSU, NCHHD. Representatives from various state and central handloom and handicraft corporations, technical agencies, and implementing agencies also participated, providing a platform for comprehensive knowledge exchange.
A significant highlight of the event was the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). The first MOU was between the NCHHD and the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Ahmedabad. The second was between Naad Tarang and Sathiya Welfare Society, Bhopal. These agreements aim to foster collaboration and support for artisans, enhancing their market reach and operational capabilities.
Additionally, the 9th edition of “Karigar Gatha” was launched by the dignitaries, further emphasizing the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of India’s artisanal communities. This publication showcases the stories and successes of artisans across the country, serving as an inspiration for continued growth and innovation.
The artisanal clusters supported by the Ministry of MSME are vibrant hubs of creativity and tradition. They represent not only the essence of local culture and heritage but also the incredible ingenuity and craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. However, the event highlighted the pressing need for effective marketing strategies to help artisans navigate the competitive global marketplace and sustain their livelihoods.
Key discussions during the workshop included:
- Introduction to NCHHD and the workshop’s objectives.
- Initiatives by NCHHD to market cluster products and establish a roadmap.
- Joint marketing events, both domestic and international.
- Organizing marketing events for SFURTI clusters under one umbrella.
- Convergence with other schemes/agencies for enhanced market exposure.
- Functional clusters of Phase II, product diversity, innovation, and learning experiences.
- Sustainability of clusters post-handover and challenges for SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles).
- Compliance requirements for SPVs, including GST, RoC, and audits.
- Sharing of best practices, challenges, and suggestions.
The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks to all participants, marking the end of a productive day dedicated to the advancement of India’s handicrafts sector. The event not only provided a roadmap for future marketing strategies but also fostered a collaborative environment for all stakeholders to share experiences and insights, paving the way for sustainable growth and development of SFURTI clusters.
Always First Newspaper remains committed to covering events that contribute to the cultural and economic development of our nation. Stay tuned for more updates on the remarkable progress being made in the handicrafts and handloom sectors.
Leave a Reply