Handicrafts fairs and haats are back in business at Rajasthan, with COVID safety measures. A major platform for local arts and crafts, such traditional marketing events were restricted by the pandemic for most of the year 2020. Rajasthan Government through its industries department is extending its support to facilitate markets for thousands of craftsmen in the state.
In the first month of 2021, two such handicrafts fair were held in the state capital, city of Jaipur. In February, a Special Handloom Expo is being organised in the city by the Udhyam Protsahan Sansthan of Rajasthan Industries department, more such events are also being planned in other cities of the state.
“It is a positive development, the event organisers have adapted to the contemporary requirements and following safety procedures for prevention of COVID. The artisans and buyers too are displaying full cooperation to ensure safe business. The Industries department will continue to support such activities,” said Archana Singh, Industries Commissioner, Rajasthan Government
Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot has also previously expressed concerns on the impact of the pandemic on artisan and craftsmen families of the state. The Industries department accordingly has made several efforts to facilitate marketing opportunities for the craftsmen. The department even held a campaign to promote handicrafts as gift items in the festive season to follow the lockdown. However, with the return of fairs, handicraft artists are optimistic of rapid return to normalcy.
The Handicraftsman too have adapted for the new normal, not only have they adopted safe behaviour, the items on display are more to attract the domestic tourists along with local residents.
Box: Notably, nearly 4 such events are scheduled to be held till April and the Rajasthan Government is all set to play host to Special Handloom Expo from February 19 to March 4, followed by Craft Bazaar from March 5 to March 14 and March 15 to March 24. The last event that is already on cards would take place between March 25 to April 3. After these power packed two months, the state is likely to plan more such expos and bazaars throughout the year. The post COVID recovery of these artisans is likely to boost after these events and such initiatives by the government would benefit nearly 4 lakh artisan families.
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