New Delhi, November 6
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment held a grand opening for the Shilp Samagam Fair at Delhi Haat, INA, in the capital city of Delhi. On this occasion, the Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, launched “TULIP” (Traditional Artisans’ Upliftment Livelihood Programme) under the guidance of the Ministry’s premier corporation, NBCFDC. The goal of TULIP is to empower marginalized artisans by providing them with a platform for global exposure and sales of their products through e-marketing. Under the TULIP brand, artisans from Scheduled Castes (SC), Other Backward Classes (OBC), sanitation workers, and persons with disabilities will have an e-platform to market their products.
Dr. Virendra Kumar further highlighted the digital initiatives “PM-SURAKSHA Portal” and “PM-DAKSH Portal,” launched by Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, which enable targeted groups to access subsidized loan schemes and skill development training through online platforms. Through initiatives like the “Vishwas Yojana” and “Namaste Yojana,” financial assistance and protection are being extended to the Scheduled Caste, Backward Class, and sanitation worker communities.
The Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Mr. B.L. Verma, mentioned that the ministry has already created marketing opportunities for over one lakh individuals and that fairs like the Shilp Samagam will continue in the future. During the inauguration, the “Rang Paridhan” program showcased uniforms made from the products of artisans. This initiative is a unique step towards honoring the skills and cultural diversity of artisans. Under this initiative, the ministry’s premier corporations will use uniforms crafted by local artisans for their personnel, symbolizing India’s cultural heritage.
On this occasion, the CMD of the premier corporations, Mr. Rajan Sehgal, shared that the fair, organized from November 5 to November 15, will showcase traditional handicrafts from 16 states across 105 stalls. The products include metal crafts, wooden artifacts, cane and bamboo products, pottery, handloom items, jewelry, leather goods, and various attractive textiles.
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment also shared that approximately 5.6 million people and their families have already benefited from loan assistance, and 614,000 young individuals have received skill training. Through these schemes, targeted groups are being economically empowered to integrate into the mainstream.The Shilp Samagam Fair will also feature colorful cultural programs each evening.