Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme (CHCDS)

Context

The Ministry of Textiles has approved continuation of Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme (CHCDS) with a total outlay of ?160 crore up to March 2026.

Key-points

• Presented by: The program was launched by the Ministry of Textiles.
• Fund allocation: The CHCDS scheme has been approved for an amount of Rs 160 crore.
• Objective:
  • To raise the living standards of millions of poor artisans located in far flung areas of the country as well as employment generation. 
  • To provide requisite support in terms of infrastructure, technology, product diversification, design development, marketing and promotion, social security and other components that are necessary for the sustainability of craftsmen/artisans engaged in the Handicrafts sector.
  • To create more livelihood opportunities for people through interventions in the industry and to increase the income of professionals / professionals involved in the field.
• Aim:
  • CHCDS schemes were set up to build a world-class infrastructure that would cater to the business needs of local artisans and SMEs to increase production and exports.
  • These collections were set up to assist professionals,adequate training,state-of-the-art technology, and the inclusion of human resource development. It is also coupled with market linkages and production diversification.

Significance of the Scheme

• This scheme can also help boost exports of textile handicrafts as the demand for such products from India is worldwide.
• These projects will focus on bringing together scattered professionals, building businesses at grassroots level and linking them with SMEs in the handicraft sector to ensure a quality economy.
  • 10,000 artisans will be selected to improve everything under the program.