The 10-day golden jubilee celebrations
of Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms (DHH) began here
today with a rich display of heritage products from North-eastern
states. Governor Mr V Rama Rao inaugurated the celebrations.
Handicrafts and handloom products, ranging from bamboo cases
to woolen ones, all done in typical North-eastern fashion,
is the main highlight of the celebrations. Attractions like
craft mela that has participation from all N-E states and
West Bengal, photo exhibition, theme pavilion and cultural
bonanza are also the major highlights of the celebrations.
The celebrations are also a platform to share new ideas on
crafts for the participants, the organisers, said.
Established in 1957 under the royal patronage of the then
Choygal, Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms (DHH), Gangtok,
has played an important role in preserving and promoting the
rich cultural legacy of the Himalayan state.
When it was first established, it was known as Palden Thendup
Cottage Industries with just 28 trainees in four crafts ~
thanka painting, carpet weaving, handloom weaving and handmade
paper making. The name was later changed to Government Institute
of Cottage Industries in 1974. In 1980, its name was again
changed as Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms (DHH).
Today, DHH is main preserver of the rich cultural identity
of Sikkim with over 2,000 artistes and craftsman having completed
vigorous training at its 29 branches spread across the state.
Governor Mr V Rama Rao in his inaugural address, said that
handlooms and handicrafts are the largest segment in villages
and if proper help is extended to them, the villages would
prosper.
Mr.Rao also chose the occasion to highlight proper remuneration
to the artistes who, he said, do not get proper returns because
of brokers. Citing vast difference in the costs, the governor
asked the DHH to limit their profits to a particular percentage
and pass a major share to the artistes.
This is one point the government should think. We can make
the life of artistes better by giving them proper remuneration,
he added.
The governor also released a souvenir and launched the website
of the DHH on the occasion. Sixteen former employees of the
DHH were also felicitated by the governor.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr RB Subba, industries minister,
said that there is a great potential in handloom and handicrafts
sector but sadly, has not been tapped as yet. Our government
is keen to ensure its growth and with active support from
the Centre, the handloom and handicrafts sector would see
better days, he said.
Miss Namrata Thapa, director, DHH, said that the institute
has been actively involved in training school drop-outs and
youths in handicrafts and handloom sector to give them a livelihood.
She added that more branches would be added to augment the
29 branches of the DHH.
Courtesy: The Statesman |
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