Assistance for awardees to mentor newer artisans
Shillong, March 13: Five artisans of the state were awarded the Handicraft Artisans of the Year award on Friday.
Instituted by Commerce & Industries department, the award carries cash prize of Rs 50,000, a trophy, and a certificate.
The winners of this year’s award are – Phras Syngkli of Umkaduh, Ri-Bhoi; Gilford Pde of Chilliang Raij, Jowai; Mamsikha N Sangma of Balsri A’ding Chitoktak, West Garo Hills; Ensila D Shira of Rongreng Chidekgre, Williamnagar; and Wanstep Thangkhiew of Umsong, Ri-Bhoi.
Felicitating the handicraft artisans, Commerce and Industries director F Sutnga the awards are a testament to their hard work and dedication.
He said the initiative would preserve the indigenous crafts and traditions that have been passed down by our forefathers.
He also announced financial assistance for the artisans for construction of working shed cum store room & sales outlet, tools & equipment.
Financial assistance will also be provided to the awardees as working capital and to train and mentor newer artisans.
With the soon to be made functional, the Innovation & Research Centre (I&RC) will help the artisans with newer craft designs that will have more relevant functionality and also helps in standardizing the craft items.
The Innovation & Research Centre (I&RC) will have the latest 3D printers and software for prototyping of new crafts with better designs.
The current State awardees along with the past State awardees can contribute to this centre with their vast knowledge of the indigenous crafts from various regions of the State, he said.
