Handicraft Mela Participation Scheme
By Industries and Mines Department, Government of Gujarat
Check your eligibility
Sign up and we'll tell you whether your startup qualifies for this grant.
Quick Answer
A Gujarat government scheme to promote traditional handicrafts by providing artisans and organizations with platforms to showcase and sell their products at state and national-level fairs.
About this grant
The "Handicraft Mela Participation" scheme, an initiative by the Industrial Extension Cottage (iNDEXT-C) under the Industries & Mines Department, Government of Gujarat, is designed to invigorate and sustain the traditional handicraft sector of the state. It addresses the critical need for market access and visibility for skilled artisans and their unique products. The primary goal is to empower individual artisans, self-help groups (SHGs), and registered handicraft organizations by facilitating their participation in prestigious state and national-level fairs (melas). This scheme acts as a bridge, connecting traditional craftspeople with wider audiences and potential buyers, thereby boosting their livelihoods and preserving cultural heritage.
Through this program, Indext-C provides essential logistical support and allocates exhibition stalls at designated melas, significantly reducing the financial and operational burden on participants. This support enables artisans to focus on their craft and engage directly with customers, fostering entrepreneurship and market understanding. The scheme plays a crucial role in promoting the rich tapestry of Gujarati handicrafts, ensuring their continuity and growth in a competitive market. It aims to create a sustainable ecosystem where traditional skills are valued and thrive.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Grant providers
The Industries & Mines Department (IMD) of the Government of Gujarat is the state department that makes industrial and MSME policy. Its executive arm, the Industries Commissionerate, implements those policies, both the state's and the central government's, and runs the Startup…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
The Handicraft Mela Participation scheme offers comprehensive support designed to significantly boost the visibility and sales opportunities for Gujarat's artisans. Key benefits include: Stall Allocation: Participants receive free or heavily subsidized stalls at various state and national-level handicraft melas, reducing overhead costs. Promotional Support: The scheme provides marketing and branding assistance, helping artisans effectively present their products to a wider audience. Sales Platform: Direct access to a large customer base and potential bulk buyers at these fairs enables immediate sales and business networking. Logistical Aid: Basic infrastructure, such as tables and signage, is provided at mela venues, ensuring a smooth setup process. Additionally, financial incentives and priority are given to artisans from SC/ST/SEBC/EWS categories, promoting inclusive growth and supporting economically vulnerable communities within the handicraft sector.
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applications submitted to Indext-C, either through district offices or directly, undergo a thorough review process. A selection committee evaluates each application based on the eligibility criteria for individual artisans or organizations/SHGs, ensuring the applicant meets the residency, ID card, handicraft specialization, and registration requirements. Preference is given to artisans from SC/ST/SEBC/EWS categories. Following this evaluation, selected participants are notified via SMS or email, indicating their successful allocation for participation in the designated handicraft melas.
Application Process
- 1
Download Application Form
The applicant downloads the prescribed application format from the Indext-C website.
You - 2
- 3
- 4
How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 3
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 4
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 5
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Program templates & documents
Files the program publishes for applicants — download these and apply in the prescribed format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for the Handicraft Mela Participation scheme?
The scheme is open to individual artisans residing in Gujarat with a valid Artisan ID Card specializing in traditional handicrafts, as well as registered clusters, cooperative societies, and NGOs with a minimum of 10 affiliated artisans. Organizations must also provide audit reports and registration certificates.
What kind of support does the scheme offer?
The scheme primarily offers non-financial support including free or subsidized stall allocations at designated state and national melas, promotional and branding assistance, a direct sales platform to connect with customers and bulk buyers, and essential logistical aid like basic infrastructure at venues. Financial incentives and priority are also extended to artisans from SC/ST/SEBC/EWS categories.
How do I apply for the scheme?
Applications are accepted offline. You need to download the prescribed application form from the Indext-C website, fill in all mandatory details, attach self-attested copies of required documents (e.g., Artisan ID, registration certificates, audit reports), and submit the complete form to your nearest District Industries Office or directly to the Indext-C Headquarters in Gandhinagar.
Are there any application fees?
The scheme details provided do not mention any application fees. The focus is on facilitating participation through subsidized stalls and support, implying the application process itself is free.
What is the selection process after applying?
The Indext-C will review all submitted applications for eligibility and completeness. Once the review is complete, selected participants will be notified via SMS or email regarding their participation in the designated melas. The selection aims to ensure representation across various traditional handicraft categories and artisan communities.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
