Handicraft industry to be developed

Ridma DISSANAYAKE

Development of the Handicraft Industry has assumed great significance under the Mahinda Chinthana policy, Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Deputy Minister Weerakumara Dissanayake said.

He was addressing a workshop held for local handicraft manufacturers in sesath, rush, reed, clay and mask at the National Craft Council yesterday.

At present there is a huge development in tourism and most of the tourists are interested in local handicrafts. "Therefore, our creations which are high in quality will increase this demand," he added.

National Crafts Council Chairman Buddhi Keerthisena, addressing the gathering said that the local market alone is not sufficient to develop the handicraft industry and international market too is important. "Producing quality handicrafts is very important to meet international demands," he said

"We should have a new vision for the handicrafts industry in Sri Lanka. Providing training to those involved in the industry is essential. We have to develop traditional designs and create new designs as well," the chairman added.

The National Crafts Council has made all arrangements to hold an exhibition while using indigenous handicraft artists, he noted.