The Delhi government has unveiled a prestigious new awards initiative, the Rajya Shilpkar Puraskar, aimed at recognising and empowering the city's master artisans, weavers, and designers. This move is designed to strengthen livelihoods linked to the vital handicrafts sector and preserve Delhi's rich artisanal heritage.
Categories and Focus on Inclusivity
The awards will be presented across 16 distinct craft categories, ensuring a wide representation of traditional skills. These categories include metalware, wood and stone work, pottery and terracotta, painting, jewellery, paper craft, textile and embroidery, and carpets and durries.
A special focus of the scheme is inclusivity. Dedicated awards will be reserved for women artisans, young practitioners below 30 years, differently-abled artisans, tribal artisans, and those working in endangered crafts. "The idea is to revive endangered traditional skills through design innovation, product diversification and contemporary usage," an official stated.
Two Major Award Streams
The initiative features two primary award streams. The Rajya Shilpkar Puraskar will honour master craftspeople for exceptional work and their role in passing skills to the next generation. Six awards will be given under this stream, with one specifically reserved for women.
The Rajya Dakshta Puraskar will be presented across the broad range of craft categories. Furthermore, the Rajya Dakshta Puraskar for Design Innovation will be awarded on a co-creation basis to teams of designers and artisans, fostering a connection between traditional craftsmanship and modern design sensibilities.
Support for Startups and Transparent Process
Recognising the business potential of handicrafts, a separate award will honour startup ventures or producer companies that have shown steady growth over at least five years, generated employment, and improved wages for artisans. The eligibility and progress of these startups will be verified through spot inspections by committees of the industries department.
To ensure complete fairness in selection, the government has instituted a rigorous process. Entries will be anonymised through a coding system. Applicants must submit actual craft artefacts along with photographs and videos documenting different stages of production.
Boosting Livelihoods and Heritage
This initiative directly impacts a significant portion of Delhi's workforce, with over 20,000 artisans from Delhi registered with the development commissioner (handicrafts) of the central government. Officials believe the awards will motivate artisans, encourage innovation and effective marketing, promote modern technology, and inspire the younger generation.
Beyond monetary recognition, awardees will receive assured participation opportunities at major national events like the Surajkund Crafts Mela and the India International Trade Fair, providing them with invaluable marketing platforms. This holistic approach aims to secure the future of Delhi's handicrafts sector, which is a notable contributor to both employment and economic growth in the region.
