Handicraft sector always in govt's priority: PM Oli

KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has stated that the government will always prioritise the handicraft sector.

Addressing the inaugural session of the 44th annual general assembly (AGM) of the Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN) in Lalitpur today, Prime Minister Oli assured that the government would take maximum initiatives in favour of the handicraft sector, as it boosts employment, production, entrepreneurship, and exports in the country.

He urged everyone to increase the use of handicraft goods instead of readymade ones, emphasising that the handicraft sector would never struggle for its existence as Nepal is rich in art and culture. "Our country is famous for art, and the art here is priceless," mentioned PM Oli, adding, "Handicrafts have helped women's employment and skill development as well as social upliftment. Let's get involved in exporting handicraft goods, and I will discuss with the Federation the development and promotion of the handicraft business."

Similarly, FHAN President Prachanda Shakya welcomed the government's move to issue guidelines for using domestic products in public entities and stressed the need for their effective implementation.

He drew the prime minister's attention to various points for export facilitation. The handicraft sector has directly and indirectly created 1.1 million jobs and has exported goods worth around Rs 11 billion.

Outstanding exporters and contributors were honoured on the occasion.

By RSS