President Bidya Devi Bhandari has insisted on the need of promoting handicraft products for the economic development in the nation.
Inaugurating the 15th Handicraft Trade Fair and 13th Craft Competition organized by the Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal at Bhrikutimandap Friday, Bhandari was of the opinion that the promotion of handicraft goods, skills and knowledge would help in reducing poverty and achieving economic progress. Youth generation should be encouraged toward the acquisition of such knowledge and skills. " Nepali handicraft skills and arts has explored Nepal's identity in the international arena."
On the occasion, the President gave away certificates to exporters of fine and quality handicraft goods.
The exhibition kicked off with the slogan of 'Potentialities for promotion/prosperity of handicrafts' has showcased around 200 stalls featuring handicraft goods produced in 25 districts. Nepal last year exported handicraft products of worth around Rs 10 billion. Some 1.1 million people are directly and indirectly employed in this sector.
Federation President Dharmaraj Shakya was of the view of promoting the production of handicrafts to minimise poverty.
