Rs 5 cr to promote handicraft

The Karnataka government has released Rs 5 crore to conduct folk festivals all over the state to promote handicraft, traditional artwork and products of cottage industries.

The folk festival is modelled on the lines of the famous `Delhi Haat' which offers a amalgamation of craft, food and cultural activities.

The folk festivals are being organised as part of the 'Suvarna Karnataka' programme to mark the golden jubilee of the formation of the state.

"Karnataka has a rich heritage of traditional artwork and handicrafts, which are in great demand at the international market. We intend to provide an opportunity to the artisans to sell their products through the folk festivals," Karnataka tourism, Kannada and culture, information secretary I M Vittalmurthy told reporters here on Tuesday.

The folk festivals will be held at tourist centres and places of religious importance. The first such festival will be held in October, he said.