In a significant move to uplift India’s vibrant handicrafts sector, a delegation from the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) led by Chairman Dr. Neeraj Khanna met senior IAS officer Deependra Singh Kushwah, Development Commissioner (Industries), Government of Maharashtra. The meeting focused on strengthening strategies to enhance handicraft exports, improve policy support, and develop a more inclusive ecosystem for artisans across Maharashtra and beyond.
The high-level EPCH delegation included Avdesh Agarwal, Chief Convenor of EPCH; Ravi Passi; Pradeep Muchalla, Members of the Committee of Administration (CoA). They presented key recommendations aimed at boosting exports, enhancing infrastructure, and encouraging the development of artisans, particularly women entrepreneurs. Other key discussions included promoting e-commerce, supporting One District One Product (ODOP) schemes, and facilitating Geographical Indication (GI) product recognition.
Deependra Singh Kushwah, a senior IAS officer known for his progressive approach, engaged actively with the delegation on possible state-level support mechanisms, including subsidies and incentives, to scale Maharashtra’s handicraft exports.
In a parallel meeting, the delegation also met Renu Shome, Director of the Council of EU Chambers of Commerce in India, to discuss strategies for increasing the footprint of Indian handicrafts in the European Union market.
This series of strategic discussions highlights the government’s commitment to building global pathways for India’s heritage-rich artisan communities.
