The budget announcements regarding clay art made by Rajasthan CM are coming to fruition, boosting self-employment and promoting self-reliance.
The primary goal of the Shri Yade Mati Kala Board is to implement various programs for the betterment of traditional artisans by offering them infrastructure facilities enhanced with modern technology.
The Mati Kala Board is working tirelessly to achieve Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma’s vision of empowering soil artisans through self-employment and self-reliance. As part of the Rajasthan government’s 2024-25 budget initiatives, the distribution of 1,000 clay knitting machines and electrically operated chalk is progressing rapidly. Shri Prahlad Rai Tak, Chairman of the Shri Yade Mati Kala Board, announced at the Udyog Bhawan Auditorium on Friday that the allotment of these machines and electric chalk for 16 districts will be conducted through a lottery system.
Shri Tak announced that, as part of the first phase of the budget initiative, 500 soil artisans from 25 districts will receive clay knitting machines and electrically operated chalk. To facilitate this, 20 teams have been formed in each district. Lotteries have already been conducted in 9 districts, and on Friday, lotteries were held for the remaining 16 districts, selecting 320 artisans. The training for these artisans will be completed by January 31, after which the machines and chalk will be distributed at a state-level event.
International Opportunities for Clay Artisans
Shri Tak highlighted that the Rajasthan government, under Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, has taken significant steps to empower soil artisans and promote cottage and village industries. In alignment with the Chief Minister’s vision, the Shri Yade Mati Kala Board is focusing on skill development, quality control, and preserving traditional clay art.
As part of this initiative, the Board plans to provide clay artisans with both national and international platforms. District and state-level competitions will be organized to showcase the artisans’ skills, with winners receiving prizes. Additionally, the Board will encourage and support top talents to represent their work on international platforms, ensuring broader recognition for their craft.