Thiru Maran said that handicraft industry is a shining example based on the use of local resources and local initiatives. It is estimated that there are around 65 lakh artisans engaged in this sector for their livelihood, Thiru Maran added. With a view to enhance the lives of handicraft artisans, Thiru Maran said that Textiles Ministry provides them marketing support. He hoped, that the International Jewellery Summit would provide a platform for collaboration of artisans and designers from all over the world and synergise their ideas to produce new attractive and outstanding business as well as innovative marketing strategies.

While addressing on the occasion, Tmt Sheila Dikshit, Chief Minister of Delhi, lauded the role of World Craft Council in organizing such Summit. She said that the Summit will provide opportunities for growth as well as economic independent and emancipation of crafts persons.

While speaking on the occasion, Tmt. Panabaaka Lakshmi, Minister of State for Textiles, highlighted the role of handicrafts in the overall export basket and informed about the various schemes being implemented by the Ministry for the promotion of handicrafts and welfare of the handicrafts artisans.