In its endeavour to revive the rural handicraft industry, the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has taken a historic initiative to tie up with National Institute of Fashion Technology to impart training to 125 women artisans at five locations across the state.
Divulging further details, Special Chief Secretary, Cooperation Anurag Aggarwal, after inaugurating first training session here, said that the articles prepared by these artisans will be sold by Markfed, a premier Co-operative Institution of State Government through its online e-commerce portal as well as at its store situated in sector 22-C, Chandigarh. Mr Anurag Agarwal who took the initiative to revive dying handicrafts and Phulkari Industry in Punjab further said that a committee of Registrar, Co-operative Societies, Punjab and Managing Director, Markfed has been constituted to help up the women artisans of state.
He said that it was felt that traditional items of Punjab should be promoted at National/ International level by drawing the inherent strength of Punjab State and marketing the same as the produce of Punjab. The Special Chief Secretary said that the Phulkari products are in great demand around the globe.
He said that keeping this in mind, the responsibility has been entrusted to Markfed to market these products and help these artisans in getting them good remuneration for the products prepared by them. Mr Anurag Aagarwal envisioned that this unique endeavour will go a long way in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the state on one hand and opening new vistas of self reliance for women on the other.
Proposing vote of thanks MD Markfed Girish Dayalan said that Markfed will continue its role in discharging social responsibilities in addition to progression in its business activities. He said that the premier cooperative of the state is also duty bound to ensure that the cultural heritage of the state is preserved by all means. Girish Dyaalan said that the Markfed will discharge its duty efficiently to make this project a huge success.
The Special Chief Secretary was accompanied by Registrar Co-operative Societies VK Setia, Managing Director Markfed Punjab, Girish Dayalan and others motivated the women artisans.