Report by OD bureau; New Delhi: Odisha is world famous for its Handicrafts & Handloom, being an integral  part of the State’s tradition and culture. The superb craftsmanship of the artisans and weavers has been appreciated all over the globe. There are about 1.25 lakh artisans and 1.95 lakh weavers engaged part time or full time in handicrafts and weaving activities, dispersed across the state.

Marketing of the handicrafts & handloom products is the key for raising the economic condition of artisans and weavers,.Govt. under a number of  schemes organises exhibitions at the district and state level at regular intervals for marketing of handicraft & handloom products. To give further boost to the marketing, the national and international market also needs to be tapped.

The export of handicraft & handloom from Odisha has not  satisfactorily matched its craftsmanship and number of artisans and weavers engaged in the state. In an effort to increase export of handicrafts & handloom products from the state, Govt. have launched several initiatives such as Product Development especially focusing on international market without disturbing the traditional style and craftsmanship. Identification of entrepreneurs in handicraft & handloom sector and their capacity building to handle export business have also been taken up. Common Facility Centres are being promoted for providing facilities for mass production of different items.

To provide a proper platform to showcase the handicraft & handloom products, an exporter meet was organised in Delhi where around 50 exporters and buying agents from different states were invited to view the products displayed by 15 exhibitors, from handicrafts and handloom sector.

The exporters’ meet was inaugurated by H.E. (Mrs.) Irina A Orolbaeva, Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan in the presence of other Diplomats from Cuba, Azerbaijan, Ukrain, Romania, Vietnam, Indonesia, Fiji etc. on 17th July 2012 at Niryat Bhawan, New Delhi. Shri Vipin Saxena, Special Resident Commissioner, Govt. of Odisha, New Delhi, Officers of the State Govt. from Textile ,Handloom & Handicraft Dept., Principal Resident Commissioner’s Office and distinguished guests were present.

A Work Shop on Packaging was also organised for the participants as packaging is an integral part for increasing the  marketing ability. The event is expected to give a boost to the marketing of Handicraft & Handloom products of the state. The exhibitors will have first hand information about the export potential of their products and modifications required to enter into export market.