The scheme enables artisans and handicraft organizations to participate in government-sponsored melas across Gujarat and other states, fostering market access and preserving traditional crafts. Benefits include subsidized stall fees, promotional support, and sales opportunities for handmade products.
Handicraft Mela Participation - Introduction
Handicraft Mela Participation by the Industrial Extension Cottage (iNDEXT-C), Industries & Mines Department, Government of Gujarat, aims to promote traditional handicrafts by providing artisans and organisations with platforms to showcase and sell their products at state and national-level fairs. The scheme facilitates participation in designated melas by covering logistical support and stall allocations. Eligible applicants include Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and registered handicraft organisations. The scheme is implemented by iNDEXT-C (Industrial Extension Bureau, Gujarat) and applications are accepted offline through district offices or the iNDEXT-C portal.
Benefits
- Stall Allocation: Free or subsidized stalls at designated melas.
- Promotional Support: Marketing and branding assistance for participants.
- Sales Platform: Direct access to customers and bulk buyers.
- Logistical Aid: Basic infrastructure (tables, signage) provided at mela venues.
- Financial Incentives: Priority for artisans from SC/ST/SEBC/EWS categories.
Eligibility
For Individual Artisans
- The applicant must be a resident of Gujarat.
- The applicant must possess a valid Artisan ID Card issued by Index-C or a recognized authority.
- The applicant must specialize in a traditional handicraft listed under the scheme (e.g., embroidery, pottery, woodwork).
For Organizations/SHGs
- The applicant must be a registered cluster/cooperative society/NGO.
- The applicant must have a minimum of 10 artisans affiliated with the organization.
- The applicant must submit audit reports and registration certificates.
Application Process
- Step 1: The interested applicant should take a printout of the prescribed format of the application form from the Indext-C website.
- Step 2: In the application form, fill in all the mandatory fields (personal or organization details, artisan ID, and handicraft category, etc.), and attach copies of all the mandatory documents (self-attestation, if required).
- Step 3: Submit the duly filled and signed application form, along with the documents, either to your nearest District Industries Office or to the following address: Indext-C Headquarters, Industrial Extension Cottage, Block No. 7, 1st Floor, Udyog Bhavan, Sector-11, Gandhinagar - 382 011.
The Indext-C will review the applications and notify the selected participants via SMS/email.