Panaji, Aug. 8: Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant on Saturday interacted with artisans, weavers, entrepreneurs and stakeholders from Goa’s handicrafts, textile and coir sectors, discussing government schemes, reforms and opportunities for strengthening traditional livelihoods.

The programme, held at the Chief Minister’s official residence, Mahalaxmi, at Altinho in Panaji, was organised under the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swayampurna Goa 2.0 initiatives. Officials from the Department of Handicrafts, Textile and Coir and the Goa Handicrafts Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (GHRSSIDC) briefed participants on government support available for skill development, financial assistance, market access and business growth.

“Every handcrafted product represents Goa’s history, culture and identity, and our artisans are the custodians of this rich heritage,” Sawant said. He added that the government would continue providing financial, institutional and marketing support to help artisans become self-reliant.

Highlighting the role of GHRSSIDC in supporting local micro, small and medium enterprises, the Chief Minister said more than 100 registered vendors were benefiting from government procurement across 16 categories under the Preferential Purchase Scheme.

He said the corporation’s turnover had increased from ₹37.08 crore to ₹47.68 crore and subsequently to ₹56.70 crore during 2025–26.

According to information presented during the interaction, the government provided financial assistance of ₹1.05 crore to 406 traditional clay idol makers during 2025–26. Around 150 electric pugmill clay-mixing machines, valued at ₹60 lakh, were also distributed to help improve productivity.

A total of 1,003 local artisans benefited under the Vishwakarma Kaushal Yojana and Swavalamban Yojana through training, financial assistance, tools, raw materials and marketing support.

The Aparant Maand initiative currently provides free exhibition space to more than 100 artisans. GHRSSIDC retail outlets and digital platforms are also being used to expand market access for locally made products.

The proposed Kunbi Craft Village at Ugem-Salaulim, spread over 16,500 square metres, is expected to directly benefit more than 2,000 Kunbi artisans. The project is also aimed at promoting the traditional Kunbi saree in national and international markets.

Sawant announced that the government’s next priority would be to prepare a comprehensive database of Goa’s artisans and traditional occupations. He said the database would help the government formulate targeted policies, give artisans greater recognition and support sustainable livelihoods.

The Chief Minister appealed to citizens to purchase indigenous products and support local artisans. He also urged Goans to participate in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign by hoisting the National Flag at their homes.

The interaction was attended by the Secretary and Director of the Department of Handicrafts, Textile and Coir, the GHRSSIDC Managing Director, senior government officials, artisans, weavers, entrepreneurs and representatives of various departments.