Vijayawada: The state govt on Wednesday issued a GO appointing Suchitra Ella, a Padma Bhushan awardee and co-founder of Bharat Biotech, as honorary advisor (handlooms and handicrafts development) to the govt in cabinet rank. She will be in the position for a period of two years or till the necessity of the post ceases, whichever is earlier.
The GO stated that Suchitra will advise on policies to enhance the sustainability, competitiveness, and growth of handicraft and handloom sectors. She will recommend best practices to boost market access and innovation to attract investments, both domestic and international, and steps to support artisans, cooperatives, and MSMEs. She will also advise on access to financial assistance, credit schemes, and govt subsidies for artisans. She will recommend strategies to strengthen domestic and export markets by expanding trade agreements and market linkages. Additionally, she will advise on eco-friendly, sustainable, and technologically advanced production methods, digitisation, blockchain for traceability, and e-commerce platforms for artisan products.
Suchitra will also advise on modern techniques to enhance skill training programs for artisans by integrating traditional knowledge. She will facilitate collaborations between design institutes, craft schools, and industry experts. Promoting and strengthening geographical indication (GI) tagging and intellectual property rights for unique crafts, suggesting digital marketing strategies, and supporting artisans in leveraging social media and online marketplaces are also included in her roles and responsibilities. Advising on support for women artisans and marginalised communities through inclusive development initiatives will also be part of her duties.
