Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma highlighted the government’s dedication to uplifting all sections of society through the “Double Engine Government.” He stressed the significance of Maati Kala products in symbolizing progress and auspiciousness, affirming the State Government’s commitment to supporting this traditional craft and the artisans involved.
During a recent event at the Chief Minister’s residence, representatives from the Kumhar, Kumawat, and Prajapat communities honored the Chief Minister for the government’s budget announcements and ongoing welfare programs for their communities. The Chief Minister acknowledged the challenges faced by clay artisans in the evolving socio-economic environment and assured efforts to enhance their living standards.
Under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, artisans in various trades, including carpenters and potters, are receiving loans at a low interest rate of 5%. The government has provided training to over 2 lakh beneficiaries and disbursed loans to more than 53,000 individuals. Additionally, the Chief Minister Vishwakarma Pension Scheme offers a monthly pension of Rs 3,000 to laborers, street vendors, and folk artists upon reaching 60 years of age.
The government has increased monthly assistance for students from these communities residing in hostels and residential schools to Rs 3,250 per student. Furthermore, provisions have been made to issue certificates to students upon completing Class 8. The establishment of a Mati Kala Centre of Excellence and the provision of equipment to artisans aim to uplift the clay art sector.
Promoting education and skill development among youth is a key focus, with approximately 3.5 lakh individuals receiving skill training. The government’s initiatives, such as the Mukhyamantri Yuva Sambal Yojana and establishment of smart classrooms in government Industrial Training Institutes, aim to empower the youth and enhance their skills.
Minister Joraram Kumawat expressed gratitude for the government’s support in revitalizing the art of Mati Kala, noting its resurgence under the Chief Minister’s leadership. Prahlad Rai Tak, Chairman of the Shriyade Mati Kala Board, praised the government’s policy decisions that have boosted the clay art sector and promoted self-employment among youth through modern equipment provision.
The event witnessed the release of the book “Mati Rajasthan Ri” by the Chief Minister and the honoring of distinguished Kumawat community members with the Mati Ke Lal award for their achievements. The gathering, attended by artisans, pottery sector stakeholders, and Kumawat community representatives, celebrated the flourishing of Mati Kala.
