PANAJI, Feb 26 – Cottage industry, which is almost on the verge of disappearance in many places due to the advent of modern brands, will soon get a facelift in Indian beach resort Goa, a sought-after tourist destination. The state government is mulling branding its handicrafts as part of an initiative to promote the dying industry, reports Press Trust of India (PTI). This is being mooted in the draft of the ‘Goa Industrial cum Investment Policy’ which is in the final stages of preparation.
“A ‘Handmade in Goa’ brand can be created with a logo which will characterise all Goan handmade products,” the draft says. Under the plan, the government would construct a mall known as ‘Shilpagram’ to facilitate selling of handicrafts that would “also act as a tourist attraction.”
The government would also identify dying crafts and traditions and impart training to artisans through master craftsmen. Those trained would then be provided suitable platforms to display their products. A packed holiday resort with sunny beaches and panoramic inlands, Goa is known for its coconut and bamboo crafts. The place has a rich heritage of handicrafts and village industries to create employment avenues.
BERNAMA