Imphal, November 29 2009: The state Commerce and Industries department is planning for the setting up of mini-crafts museums in the state in order to store crafts' products in the state, said Functional Manager of Directorate of Commerce and Industries department, L Biren.

He was speaking at the inaugural function of the 3rd HADO (Help and Development Organisation) Crafts Bazar at Yaiskul Athletic Ground today.

The 10-day long crafts bazaar is organised by HADO under the sponsorship of Office of the Development Commission, Ministry of Textiles.

L Biren said, the crafts bazaar would be a platform for the artisans to expose their products and talents.

It would also infuse a sense of competition amongst the artisans.

Speaking on the occasion, MLA L Nandakumar said, artisans would not get any benefit if they confined their products only to their houses.

They should display their artistic products and talents so that people know of their talents as well as buy their products.

He said that the government should try to promote the artisans.

He also urged the people to encourage the craftsmen.

He conveyed his desire that the government set up a permanent 'hut' in order to display the crafts products.

A permanent hut would enable the craftsmen as well as the customers sell and get the products without any problem.

He further appealed all concerned to promote awareness on the matter by frequently organising such fair.

Deputy Commissioner of Imphal West district, K Radhakumar said, now is the age of self help groups (SHGs) and NGOs.

This is not the era to wait for the time when people would do one's services.

He urged the artisans to manufacture products that would be liked and appreciated by the customers.

The function was graced by MLA L Nandakumar as the chief guest.

K Radhakumar, DC of Imphal West and L Biren, Functional Manager of Directorate of Commerce and Industries department were the president and guest of honour respectively.

Around 150 stalls are opened in the crafts fair.

Among others, MLA U Deben, Office In-charge of NABARD, AB Das, and various other dignitaries have attended the inaugural function today.

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