About this business scheme
The scheme enables artisans and handicraft organizations to participate in government-sponsored melas across Gujarat and other states, fostering market access and preserving traditional crafts. Benefits include subsidized stall fees, promotional support, sales opportunities for handmade products.
The scheme "Handicraft Mela Participation" by the Industrial Extension Cottage (iNDEXT-C), Industries & Mines Department, Government of Gujarat, aims to promote traditional handicrafts by providing artisans and organizations with platforms to showcase and sell their products at state and national-level fairs. The scheme facilitates participation in designated melas (fairs) by covering logistical support and stall allocations. Eligible applicants include individual artisans, self-help groups (SHGs), and registered handicraft organizations. The scheme is implemented by Indext-C (Industrial Extension Bureau, Gujarat), and applications are accepted offline through district offices or the Indext-C portal.
Benefits at a glance
| Scheme name | Handicraft Mela Participation (HMP) |
|---|---|
| Launched by | Industries and Mines Department |
| Benefit type | In kind (goods, services or support, not cash) |
| Category | Business |
| Level / State | State · Gujarat |
| Official portal | craftofgujarat.gujarat.gov.in (link at the end of this page) |
Key facts
| Scheme for | Individual |
|---|---|
| Application mode | Offline |
| Last date | Ongoing (no last date notified) |
| DBT (direct bank transfer) | No |
| Age | 18 to 80 years |
Who can apply (quick check)
- 👤All genders
- 🎂Age 18 to 80 years
- 💼Artisans, Spinners & Weavers
- 📝Offline
Quick check from official data. Full conditions are in the Eligibility section.
What you receive
Stall Allocation: Free or subsidized stalls at designated melas.
Promotional Support: Marketing and branding assistance for participants.
Sales Platform: Direct access to customers and bulk buyers.
Logistical Aid: Basic infrastructure (tables, signage) provided at mela venues.
Financial Incentives: Priority for artisans from SC/ST/SEBC/EWS categories.
Who qualifies
For Individual Artisans
- The applicant must be a resident of Gujarat.
- The applicant must possess a valid Artisan ID Card issued by Indext-C or a recognized authority.
- The applicant must specialize in a traditional handicraft listed under the scheme (e.g., embroidery, pottery, woodwork).
For Organizations/SHGs
- The applicant must be a registered cluster/cooperative society/NGO.
- The applicant must have a minimum of 10 artisans affiliated with the organization.
- The applicant must submit audit reports and registration certificates.
Papers to keep ready
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Registration walkthrough
Offline
Step 1: The interested applicant should take a printout of the prescribed format of the application form from the Indext-C website.
Step 2: In the application form, fill in all the mandatory fields ( personal/organization details, artisan ID, and handicraft category, etc), and attach copies of all the mandatory documents (self-attest, if required).
Step 3: Submit the duly filled and signed application form, along with the documents, either to your nearest District Industries Office or to the following address: Indext-C Headquarters, Industrial Extension Cottage, Block No. 7, 1st Floor, Udyog Bhavan, Sector-11, Gandhinagar - 382 011.
The Indext-C will review the applications and notify the selected participants via SMS/email.
Frequently asked questions
Can artisans share or sublet their allocated stalls to others?
No, stall transfers are prohibited; violators will face penalties and future participation bans.
What types of handicrafts are eligible for display at these fairs?
Eligible crafts include 62 listed categories like embroidery, metalware, terracotta, woodwork, and traditional textiles.
What happens if an artisan fails to attend after registering for a fair?
The stall allocation will be canceled, and any paid fees may be forfeited unless prior notice is given to Indext-C.
Are there any awards or recognition for outstanding artisans at these fairs?
Artisans with awards can attach certificates (max 4) in their application, but no competition details are specified.
How are artisans identified during the fair for verification purposes?
They must carry and display their artisan ID card and recent photograph at the stall.
What are the rules regarding display and arrangement of products at the stall?
Artisans must display only within allocated space without obstructing pathways or other stalls, following Indext-C's guidelines.
Can artisans participate in fairs outside their home district or state?
Yes, the scheme covers both intra-state and inter-state fairs organized by Indext-C.
What banking details are required for application processing?
Artisans must provide bank account number, IFSC code, branch name, and account holder name.
Is there any insurance coverage for artisans' goods during the fair?
No, artisans are solely responsible for their goods' safety, though security may be provided at the venue.
Are artisans allowed to consume alcohol or tobacco at the fair venue?
No, narcotics, alcohol, or flammable materials are strictly prohibited at stalls or venues.
What are the eligibility criteria for artisans to participate in the handicraft fairs organized by the government?
Artisans must produce handmade crafts listed in the official Gujarat handicraft list and possess a valid artisan identification card issued by recognized institutions like Indext-C.
How does one prove domicile status as a Gujarat resident for participation?
The application form includes a domicile declaration section; supporting documents may be required.
Submit your application yourself on the official portal; it costs nothing. Treat anyone demanding money to "get you approved" as a scam.
- Schedule For The Year 2025-26 craftofgujarat.gujarat.gov.in (PDF)
tsmpb.in is not affiliated with any government department. Apply only on the official portal and never pay anyone for an application.
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