Shillong, Feb 15: In recognition of the achievement of craftspersons for their skills, technique, innovative ideas, design and quality, the distribution of the State Award for Handicraft Artisans 2017-2018 was held today at the Industrial Training Centre, Lower Nongrim Hills, Shillong. Shri. M. R Synrem, Commissioner and Secretary, Commerce and Industries Department, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest gave away the awards to 5 artisans from different districts of the State. The award carried a certificate, a trophy and as cash prize of Rs. 50,000/- each.
Addressing the gathering, Shri. M. R Synrem congratulated the awardees for their outstanding talent and dedication to their crafts. While stating that the North East and Meghalaya in particular have a large talent pool, the challenge to meet bulk demands often posts as a stumbling block. Hence, he encouraged the artisans to work hard to plug such loop holes and assured of the Department’s support in their initiatives.
Shri. J. L. Mawlong, Director of Commerce and Industries, informed that the State Award for the year 2017-18, which is the 3rd State Award for Handicrafts Artisans since implementation in 2015-2016, had 19 contesting participants from different districts with entries ranging from cane and bamboo, containers, hand bags, murra, wood carving, water hyacinth craft, flower craft, traditional terracotta jewellery etc. Out of the 19 entries, 5 were selected for the State award making them eligible to be engaged as designers and also to avail various schemes of the office of the Development Commissioner (Handicraft). Besides the certificate, a trophy and cash prize awarded to the artisans under the State Award, the Government will provide seed money for construction of working shed, storeroom, sale outlet and also for purchase of tools, equipments etc and also provide training course for skilled artisans, he informed.
Two of the awardees, Shri. Kretis Rynjah of East Khasi Hills District and Smti. Daisy Christine G Momin of West Garo Hills District also shared the stories of their journey from humble beginnings to State Awardees, during the programme. The other awardees included Shri. Ram Kynjin Panaliar of West Jaintia Hills, Smti. Albina Jyrwa of South West Khasi Hills District and Shri. Clement Sangma of North Garo Hills District.
