The Mati Kala Mahotsav is a confluence of tradition and innovation: Rakesh Sachan

Lucknow, Oct 2025 : On Friday, Rakesh Sachan, Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Khadi, Handloom and Textiles, inaugurated the Mati Kala Mahotsav 2025 (October 10–19) at Khadi Bhawan. On this occasion, the Mati Kala Portal and an e-verification mobile app, developed by the Mati Kala Board, were also launched. Free electric potter’s wheels were distributed to 10 artisans, pugmills to 2 artisans, and loan cheques to 2 beneficiaries. The 10-day festival features 50 free stalls for artisans from various districts, showcasing a vibrant collection of traditional and contemporary clay artworks.

Minister Rakesh Sachan highlighted that the art of crafting household and decorative clay objects, such as statues, toys, utensils, and other items, has been an integral part of the state’s cultural and artistic heritage for centuries. Even today, thousands of artisans remain engaged in this traditional craft. To support and modernize this heritage industry, the Mati Kala Board was established on July 19, 2018, to promote clay products, preserve traditional craftsmanship through innovation, and expanding employment opportunities. Since its inception, 48,048 artisan families have been identified, and 37,190 artisans have been granted leases for clay extraction. The Board has distributed 15,932 electric potter’s wheels and 375 pugmills so far, with a target to distribute 2,500 wheels and 300 pugmills this financial year. In addition, 603 pairs of POP dye, 31 painting machines, and 81 diya machines have been provided to artisans.

The Minister further informed that under the Mukhyamantri Mati Kala Rojgar Yojana, loans have been sanctioned to 1,114 beneficiaries over the past six years for setting up industrial units. This year, the goal is to establish 300 new units. Currently, six Common Facility Centers (CFCs) are operational in the state, while three new centers are being developed in Amethi, Bareilly, and Bijnor. Under the training initiative, 16,307 beneficiaries have received technical training, including 1,114 in enterprise operations and 6,786 in craftsmanship.

Mati Kala Board General Manager Shishir, Nodal Officer Sanjay Kumar Pandey, along with officials and employees from the Khadi Village Industries Board and Mati Kala Board, attended the inauguration ceremony.