Government committed to develop traditional industries

COLOMBO: The Government is very keen on lending a helping hand for the development of traditional industries and increasing their contribution to drive the national economy, Rural Industries and Self-Employment Promotion Minister S.B.Nawinna told the Daily News.

The Government will create more self-employment opportunities under "Rekiya Bihidora" project, the Minister said. It has invested over Rs.5 million to commence two projects for manufacturing cane products in Weveldeniya and pottery products in Vaabodamulla in Meerigama.

"Local art and craft has a good demand in the international market and this project will encourage local craftsmen to manufacture value added products. Many art and craft industries have faced extinction and we should protecting them," he said.

The Ministry has given priority to promote local production which utilises village based resources and people.

These industrialists should be given latest technologies and new trends to gain a higher income. People in Meerigama would largely benefit through this project and infrastructure facilities have also been built.

He said the latest trend in the world is using pottery products instead of aluminum products.