Minister of State for Textiles (Independent Charge), Santosh Kumar Gangwar has launched major programmes for the development of handicraft sector in Varanasi. Skill Development of 5000 carpet weavers, 5 Months Integrated Design Development for wooden toys, Design Development workshop on soft stone and Souvenir Development are the few projects to be named. The function was attended by approx. 400 artisans, weavers, manufacturers, exporters and representatives from the sector. Gangwar also informed that the artisans’ pension has been increased from Rs. 1000 to Rs 2000 per month. Additionally, artisans who have received Shilp Guru, National Awards and National Merit Certificate will get Rs. 20,000 towards Rail Fair yearly.
