Centre will restore glory of Varanasi, says Naqvi after launch of USTTAD scheme

Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi has said the Centre is committed towards the development of traditional artisans in Varanasi and will strive to restore the glory of the city.

Speaking at the launch of Upgrading the Skills and Training in Traditional Arts and Crafts for Development (USTTAD) scheme, the minister said Varanasi has been famous for its 'ghats', temples, Banarasi saree and traditional arts in the entire world but unfortunately the city's glory has been affected during last few years as the city and its artisans have been ignored.

Naqvi further said a large section of minority community is engaged in traditional arts or crafts for several generations. The scheme has been launched to preserve rich heritage of traditional arts or crafts

of minorities and build capacity of traditional artisans and craftsmen.

He said that the scheme would also establish linkages of traditional arts/crafts with the national and international market to ensure dignity of labour.

Naqvi expressed confidence that the scheme will provide employment opportunities and better future to the youths belonging to the minority community.