The Ambedkar Hastshilp Vikas Yojana (AHVY) is a government scheme launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, to promote and develop traditional handicrafts and handloom products made by artisans belonging to Scheduled Castes (SCs). The scheme was launched in 2001 and has been implemented in various states across India.
The primary objective of the AHVY scheme is to provide support to artisans belonging to SCs by improving their skills, upgrading technology, and providing marketing assistance. The scheme aims to create a sustainable livelihood for these artisans and to promote their traditional art forms and crafts.
Under the AHVY scheme, various programs and initiatives are undertaken, including:
- Skill development and training programs for artisans to improve their traditional skills and learn new techniques.
- Provision of raw materials and tools to artisans to facilitate the production of high-quality handicrafts and handloom products.
- Infrastructure development for the production and marketing of handicrafts and handloom products, such as the establishment of common facility centers, design centers, and exhibition centers.
- Marketing support for the sale and promotion of handicrafts and handloom products made by SC artisans, including participation in national and international trade fairs and exhibitions.
The AHVY scheme is an important initiative of the government of India to promote the development of traditional handicrafts and handloom products made by SC artisans, and to create sustainable livelihood opportunities for them.