Every artisan should receive recognition, economic security and the opportunity to become self-reliant,” says Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant

Every artisan should receive recognition, economic security and the opportunity to become self-reliant,” says Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant

Panaji, August 8, 2026: Strengthening direct engagement with the artisan community, Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant today interacted with artisans, weavers, entrepreneurs and stakeholders from the handicrafts, textile and coir sectors during a Live Interaction on the schemes and reforms of the Department of Handicrafts, Textile & Coir and the Goa Handicrafts Rural & Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (GHRSSIDC). Held at Mahalaxmi, Hon’ble Chief Minister’s Official Residence, Altinho, Panaji, the programme was organised under the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swayampurna Goa 2.0 initiatives.

Putting artisan welfare at the centre of development, the interaction highlighted Government schemes, reforms and initiatives aimed at preserving Goa’s traditional crafts, strengthening livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities. Presentations by the Department and GHRSSIDC also provided stakeholders with greater awareness of available Government support and opportunities for growth.

Speaking at the occasion, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said, “Every handcrafted product represents Goa’s history, culture and identity, and our artisans are the custodians of this rich heritage.” He added, “Our Government will continue to provide skill development, financial assistance, market access and institutional support to help artisans become self-reliant.” Highlighting GHRSSIDC’s role in strengthening local MSMEs, he noted that more than 100 registered vendors are benefiting from Government procurement across 16 categories under the Preferential Purchase Scheme. He also highlighted the Corporation’s growth in turnover from ₹37.08 crore to ₹47.68 crore and ₹56.70 crore in 2025–26.

Driving support for traditional occupations, the Government provided ₹1.05 crore to 406 traditional clay idol makers during 2025–26, while around 150 Electric Pugmill Clay Mixing Machines worth ₹60 lakh were distributed to improve productivity. Under the Vishwakarma Kaushal Yojana and Swavalamban Yojana, 1,003 local artisans benefited through training, financial assistance, tools, raw materials and market support. Aparant Maand provides free exhibition space to more than 100 artisans, while GHRSSIDC retail outlets and digital platforms are expanding market opportunities. The Kunbi Craft Village at Ugem-Salaulim, spread across 16,500 sq. metres, is expected to directly benefit more than 2,000 Kunbi artisans and support the promotion of the Kunbi Saree in national and international markets.

Building a stronger foundation for traditional livelihoods, CM Dr. Sawant announced that the Government’s next priority is to create a comprehensive database of Goa’s traditional occupations and artisans. He said this will support targeted policies, provide greater recognition and strengthen sustainable livelihoods. He also appealed to citizens to support local artisans and choose indigenous products, while urging every Goan to participate in Har Ghar Tiranga and hoist the National Flag at home as a tribute to the freedom fighters and the spirit of the nation.

The interaction was attended by the Secretary, Department of Handicrafts, Textile & Coir, Director, Department of Handicrafts, Textile & Coir, Managing Director, GHRSSIDC, senior Government officials, representatives of concerned departments, artisans, weavers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders.