Karkhandar Scheme For Development Of Craft Sector

Karkhandar Scheme for Development of Craft Sector

The Karkhandar Scheme (कर्कंदर योजना) is a vital initiative by the Department of Industries & Commerce, implemented by the Directorate of Handicraft & Handloom in Jammu and Kashmir. This program is specifically designed to enhance the skills of meritorious trainees and former trainees from departmental training centers, focusing on the revival and development of the craft sector that has been facing a shortage of skilled artisans.

About the Scheme

This scheme targets the enhancement of skills among artisans, particularly those working in crafts that are struggling due to a lack of human resources. The government identifies registered Karkhanas (craft units) willing to train a group of trainees, ensuring a structured learning environment. Each small Karkhana can train a minimum of five trainees, while larger Karkhanas can accommodate up to ten. The training duration spans six months, with a focus on various crafts that are at risk of fading away.

Objectives of the Scheme

• To rejuvenate crafts that are on the verge of extinction.
• To upgrade the educational methodologies for trainees.
• To enhance the income potential of craftsmen through collective endeavors.
• To foster connections with producer organizations, cultivating entrepreneurial skills among trainees.

Vision of the Scheme

The artisans, who are essential to the craft sector, often find themselves trapped in a cycle of poverty due to exploitative business practices. Many artisans, especially men, abandon their crafts due to meager earnings and unfavorable socio-economic conditions. This scheme is envisioned as a transformative approach to alleviate the challenges faced by these communities. By introducing improved productivity techniques and exposure to market demands, the initiative aims to empower artisans with the tools and knowledge to sustain their livelihoods through better access to markets and innovative production methods.

Benefits of the Scheme

Financial Assistance to Trainees

The scheme offers a stipend of ₹2000 per month for each trainee. This amount is disbursed in two parts: ₹1000 is directly credited to the individual’s bank account, while the remaining sum is given upon successful completion of the probationary training period. Additionally, trainees will be assisted in setting up bank accounts under the Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY).

Financial Assistance to Karkhandars (Trainers)

Karkhandars are entitled to a logistic charge or honorarium of ₹2000 per trainee per month. They can train a minimum of five trainees in small Karkhanas and up to ten in larger units. Furthermore, each Karkhandar will receive a one-time grant of ₹25,000 per batch to cover all necessary logistics, including tools, equipment, raw materials, and training space. This financial aid is provided in two installments:

• The first installment is issued at the start of the training program.
• The second installment is released upon the successful conclusion of the training.

It is essential to note that the honorarium for Karkhandars will only be disbursed once the trainees demonstrate the required skill levels, which will be measured through an established qualifying framework for skill enhancement. Payments will be processed via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) only.

Eligibility Criteria

• The applicant must be a pass-out trainee or ex-trainee from a recognized departmental training center.
• The training center should be administered by the Handicrafts & Handloom Department.
• The applicant needs to have a bank account linked to their Aadhaar.

Application Process

To apply for the Karkhandar Scheme, follow these steps:

1. Download and print the application form and affidavit from the scheme guidelines available at J&K Industries & Commerce.
2. Fill out the application form and the affidavit, signing them where required.
3. Attach self-attested copies of necessary documents along with a passport-size photograph.
4. Submit the completed application to the following address:

Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom
Govt. of Jammu & Kashmir
J.L.N. Udyog Bhavan, Railhead Complex, Panama Chowk
Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir – 180 016

Note: Physical copies of the application form and affidavit can also be collected from the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom.

Crafts Targeted by the Scheme

The crafts identified for this scheme include walnut wood carving, silver filigree, carpet weaving, Kani shawl weaving, Khatamband, and Papier Machie, among others. Additional crafts such as Sozni, Tapestry, Willow Wicker, and others may be considered based on assessments by the respective Assistant Directors of the Handicrafts & Handloom Department.

Languishing Crafts

Crafts like Glazed Pottery, Turquoise craft, and Darning will receive special attention. The number of craft centers allocated to each craft can be reassigned to other crafts depending on the progress of the scheme.

For more information, visit the official source at myScheme.gov.in.