The Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts was established in the year 1957 with the sole purpose of promoting and preserving the fine ethnic arts and crafts of Sikkim. The Directorate is a unique combination of training-cum-production spread over 20 centers in Sikkim, which had a modest beginning of one center at Gangtok. A Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd. had been formed which will facilitate effective marketing of quality based products and make more jobs and avenues for crafts persons. Such products have a huge potentiality for exports.

Seven new Training Centers were opened during the last seven years where training in various traditional arts and crafts are imparted. The rate of stipend for the trainees has also been increased from Rs.200/- p.m. to Rs.300/- p.m, and Rs.250/- p.m. to Rs.350/- p.m.

A new Block Printing Section was started and in house printing of various multicraft items is carried out. Infrastructure development by way of construction of a three storeyed building at Gangtok, a two storeyed building at Lingdong in Dzongy, a four storeyed building at Namchi. Further, a three storeyed building was purchased from HUDCO at Melli. The development of these permanent infrastructure has created enough woking space for further development and growth, as well as created a conducive working environment. Modernization of looms was carried out by purchase of cart iron looms which has resulted into production of better quality carpets. The Directorate also introduced 'Hire Purchase Scheme' for issual of Handicrafts & Handloom items to the State Government Employees on monthly installment basis. This scheme has been a great success and has resulted into high sales revenue.

Craft Fairs are organized at Gangtok as yearly feature and DHH has been participating at various fairs in the State as well as at the National level. Because of the keen interest shown by the Government and the thrust given in the development of the Handicrafts and Handloom Sector, increase in Sales revenue from Rs. 35.35 lakhs in 1996 to Rs. 60.00 lakhs in the current financial year 2000-2001 is expected.

The traditional Cottage Industries and speciality in handicrafts enjoys a good national and international market. The traditional crafts like Carpet Weaving, Cane and Bamboo Crafts, spinning Wool, Handmade Paper and Thanka Paintings are well established and have government patronage in as far as training is concerned. A proficient manpower base is already available in this field, all that is required is expertise to be organized so that production quality and design can be upgraded. Professionals in the field of marketing and supply could work wonders with this traditional industry of Sikkim.

For further details please contact :

Ms Namrata Thapa SCS,
Director,
D.H.H, Gangtok
East Sikkim.
Ph - 03592 - 203126 / 202926