Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, June 19: State textiles, handlooms & handicrafts minister Snehangini Chhuria Friday met Union textiles minister Santosh Kumar Gangwar in New Delhi and raised various issues pertaining to the development of the handicrafts sector in the state.
Chhuria drew the attention of the Union minister towards opening of a marketing & services extension centre at Rayagada under office of development commissioner (Handicrafts) and strengthening of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) office in Bhubaneswar with required laboratory and technical manpower for timely issue of non-antiquity certificate, setting up of a branch of National Institution for Design (NID) in the state.
Besides, she also urged the Centre to consider opening of a branch of Export Production Council for Handicrafts in the state Capital. Sources said Chhuria has sought Central assistance for opening up of 10 handicrafts emporiums for Utkalika under Infrastructure and Technology Development Scheme and establishment of a craft complex at Pipli, the applique hub of the state.
She said Gangwar was committed to provide all possible support and Central assistance to boost the handicrafts sector in the state. Senior officials of the ministry were also present during the discussion.