Jaipur.A grand inauguration ceremony of “Craftshala” was held on Saturday at Poddar Business School, Sitapura, under the Handicrafts and Carpet Sector Skill Council, a Government of India initiative. The event was graced by Chief Guest K.L. Ramesh (Chairman, Handicrafts and Carpet Sector Skill Council) and Special Guests Girish Kumar Agrawal (Board Director, Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts - EPCH) and Lekhraj Maheshwari (Former Chairman, EPCH).
The program began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, in which Chairman of Poddar Institution Dr. Anand Poddar and Vice Chairperson Rupal Poddar, along with other dignitaries, participated.
On this occasion, it was highlighted that the primary objective of “Craftshala” is to promote the creativity of artisans associated with handicrafts, enhance their skills, and make them employment-oriented. The initiative is expected to play a significant role in empowering traditional craftsmen. Through Craftshala, artisans in Rajasthan will receive training in modern techniques, including eco-friendly printing, enabling them to become self-reliant.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Anand Poddar stated that such initiatives not only refine artisans’ skills but also help them compete at a global level. He emphasized the institution’s commitment to integrating traditional art with modern technology to create new opportunities for youth and artisans.
Chief Guest K.L. Ramesh, in his address, said that India’s handicraft tradition is immensely rich, and skill development is crucial to sustain and promote it. Centers like Craftshala will connect artisans with new technologies, designs, and markets, thereby playing a vital role in making them self-reliant.
A large number of academicians, artisans, and students attended the event. The organizers described it as an important step for the handicrafts sector and expressed their intent to organize more such programs in the future.