President Maithripala Sirisena says the government will focus on introducing of insurance scheme for handicrafts artisans. He says the government will pay more attention on solving the problems of handicraftsmen and women by providing required facilities and market opportunities.

He pointed out the ability to convert our traditional handicrafts, which is our national pride and identity, into a way of earning foreign income. He said the government has planned to give priority to local productions to increase foreign income.

The President was speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the “Shilpa Abhimani -2017”, International Crafts Festival, held at the BMICH, on 04 October. The International Craft Festival organized annually by the National Crafts Council with the aim of nurturing and preserving heritage for the sustainable existence of it.

After declaring open the exhibition, President Sirisena made an inspection tour of the exhibition. Ministers Rishad Bathiudeen, Chandrani Bandara, State Minister Champika Premadasa and the President of the National Crafts Council Heshani Bogollagama were also present on the occasion.