User:Hastkalasetuyojana/sandbox

Hastkala Setu Yojana
Hastkala Setu Yojana is an initiative by the Government of Gujarat, India, designed to foster and support the traditional crafts and handmade creations of Gujarat. Spearheaded by the Commissioner of Cottage and Rural Industry, this initiative aims to strengthen the rural economy by providing comprehensive support to artisans and aspiring entrepreneurs in Gujarat.

Background
The cottage industry being the backbone of the rural economy plays a significant role in developing economies globally. Recognizing this, the Hastkala Setu Yojana was established to act as a bridge for artisans and budding entrepreneurs, enhancing the value chain from production to market.

Objectives
The primary objectives of the Hastkala Setu Yojana include: •	Establishing district-wise rural incubators to implement the project. •	Conducting entrepreneurship-linked and skill development programs. •	Developing market linkages, industry and institutional collaborations, and credit linkages. •	Setting up a mentor network. •	Facilitating the convergence of schemes across various directorates. •	Monitoring progress at central and district levels. •	Reviving and preserving traditional crafts while promoting them in national and international markets.

Implementation
The Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) a renowned not-for-profit organization, has been appointed as the knowledge and implementation partner for this initiative. Based in Ahmedabad, EDII is recognized as a National Resource Institute for entrepreneurship education, research, training, and institution-building. EDII in collaboration with the Commissionerate of Cottage and Rural Industry is implementing the Hastkala Setu Yojana across all districts in Gujarat.

Project Approach
The project adopts a two-pronged approach:

Skill Enhancement and Development: Strengthening and honing the skills of existing artisans while nurturing new talent. This includes providing support for product development and marketing, thereby creating a sustainable livelihood for artisans.

Craft Revival and Market Integration: Engaging with craft clusters across the state, the project aims to revive lost crafts and integrate them into the market. This is achieved through creating incubation facilities that connect artisans to potential markets and ensure the authenticity and quality of the products.

Significance
Hastkala Setu Yojana serves as Gujarat's window to the world, showcasing a wide variety of authentic handloom and handicraft products. Each handicraft item showcased is carefully handpicked to reflect the rich cultural heritage of the state. The initiative not only supports the local artisans by providing them with opportunities for sustainable development but also helps preserve Gujarat’s traditional crafts and art practices.

By fostering an entrepreneurship ecosystem, the Hastkala Setu Yojana aims to innovate, train, and mentor artisans, thus strengthening the entire value chain of the cottage industry in Gujarat. Through this integrated model, the project seeks to bring local artisans closer to their roots and gain recognition in both national and international markets.