Assam CM HImanta Biswa Sarma (R) with union minority affairs minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi (2nd R) at the Hunar Haat in Guwahati | Image: CMO

Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma while inaugurating ‘Hunar Haat’ at Khanapara in Guwahati said, “The exposition where our artisans and craftsmen are displaying and selling their own unique creations will be a potential platform for ‘vocal for local’ and promoting the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat”.

Chief minister Sarma said that the exquisite handicrafts displayed at the exposition would reflect the unparallel skills of the indigenous artisans and craftsmen to showcase their crafts, cuisine and culture at a pan India level.

He also said that Hunar Haat which is a confluence of the artisans and craftsmen will ensure their economic empowerment. Thanking national minorities development and finance corporation for organizing Hunar Haat, Sarma said that the event held at different places in the country over the years has been a platform for nearly eight lakh artisans to see ‘development with dignity’.

He said that the extent of Hunar Haat is so extensive, in the coming years it is expected to cater to the needs of at least 20 lakh artisans and craftsmen across the country.

The CM said that the government at the Centre as well as the state is working proactively to protect and promote the country’s ancestral legacy of arts and crafts in the current global competition. Both the governments have taken initiatives for the artisans and craftsmen of younger generations to remain connected to their legacy and get financial and self-employment opportunities through traditional arts and crafts.

Referring to COVID 19 pandemic where the innovation and entrepreneurship of the Indians helped the country to tide over the situation, Sarma said that the N-95 masks, PPE kits, ventilators and vaccines were made during the period not only fulfilled the domestic demands but exported them to the countries across the world. This is an indication that India is becoming self-reliant with an uncompromising focus on promoting its culture and heritage.

Sarma said that the 21 model educational institutions for 21 districts of the state being built in association with the central government will be inaugurated next year to give a fillip to the socio-economic and academic empowerment of the minorities. He also said that state government is taking all necessary measures to expedite the socio-economic and academic development of the minorities.

The 38th edition of Hunar Haat at Guwahati from March 11 to 20 has witnessed the participation of 28 states and Union Territories.

Three hundred stalls have been set up to display and sell products with exquisite beauty.

Union minority affairs minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi also spoke on the occasion.

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