Promotion of the handicrafts industry is not only an economic activity but on the other hand it is a process of conserving and preserving a rich cultural heritage of the country said Southern Province Chief Minister Shan Wijayalal De Silva.
He was addressing a large gathering of handicraftsmen, handicrafts dealers and Artisans and state officials following the opening of Ruhunu Shilpa Udana 2016 the annual handicrafts exhibition jointly organized by the Southern Provincial Rural Industries Ministry and National Crafts Council at Galle town Hall yesterday.
Handicrafts contribute towards the economic prosperity of the Country a great deal. Moreover, Handicrafts hold a great cultural value. Our handicrafts are our country’s national identity. Our craftsmen and artisans are reputed for their dexterity, talent and creativity. Crafts of no other country are not comparable with those of any other country. They have their own innate aptitudes and high-quality crafts techniques inherent to our country which have been practiced since time immemorial Chief Minister further said.
Silva who briefed the handicrafts history of the country stated that historical evidence had proved that our country was reputed for handicrafts since before 6th century BC.
Our ancient kings obligingly promoted and patronage the handicrafts industry. To preserve promote and patronage the arts and crafts of the country is a state duty and obligation that cannot be disregarded’
In contrast to many other industries handicrafts industry is eco-friendly. It process or production does not affect the environment. Promotion of handicrafts will hold to solve the unemployment problem among the rural youth. If we can encourage our younger generation in handicrafts industry we can end the exodus of young people to urban cities seeking employment.
Ruhunu Shilpa Udna , the annual Southern Province arts and crafts exhibition is a oriced endeavour of Provincial Handicrafts Ministry and National Crafts council in encouraging and promotion of indigenous handicrafts. This exhibition also enhance the social and economic status of our local craftsmen. Hence I express my gratitude and appreciation over both organizations for their efforts in organizing the event.
Southern provincial Minister of Fisheries, Rural Industries and Environmental Activities H.W.Gunasena and ministry secretary A.U.Welaerathne also spoke.
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