Page 4 - EDII Report-133

11th International Day of Yoga 2025
One Earth, One Health
Celebrating 11th International Day of Yoga at EDII with
faculty, staff and participants of the ongoing programmes.
Recalling the visit of EDII Governing Board Member Shri Shaji K V Chairman, National Bank for
Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)
Speaking on the achievement, Ms. Ardra Agarwal (IAS),
Secretary & Commissioner, Cottage & Rural Industries,
Government of Gujarat, said, “The traditional crafts of
Gujarat are deeply woven into the identity of our people
and communities. Through Hastkala Setu Yojana, we have
not only sought to preserve these traditions but also to
enable artisans to thrive in today's dynamic markets. The
GI Excellence Award is a proud moment; it validates the
government's commitment to artisan-led development.
We commend the artisans, mentors and partners like EDII
who are taking our vision forward with dedication.”
Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII, said, “What makes Hastkala Setu Yojana truly
impactful is its strong connection with the ground realities of artisans. It supports them
not just with skills but also helps them understand how to preserve their heritage, employ
entrepreneurial competencies, use digital tools and grow as entrepreneurs. Geographical
Indications play a big role in giving their work the identity and respect it deserves in the
market. At EDII, we are proud to walk this journey with these artisans, ensuring they not
only protect their craft but also build a sustainable future. This award encourages us to
take this model to even more communities.”
Hastkala Setu Yojana has helped bring back traditional crafts that were slowly fading
away. The Project inspired artisans to trust the process and accept the training and
counselling to revive their heritage.
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Speaking on the achievement, Ms. Ardra Agarwal (IAS),
Secretary & Commissioner, Cottage & Rural Industries, Women Entrepreneurs Trained by
Government of Gujarat, said, “The traditional crafts of EDII get mentored by
Gujarat are deeply woven into the identity of our people
and communities. Through Hastkala Setu Yojana, we have Ms. Mercy Epao,
not only sought to preserve these traditions but also to Joint Secretary (SME),
enable artisans to thrive in today's dynamic markets. The Ministry of MSME, Govt. of India
GI Excellence Award is a proud moment; it validates the
government's commitment to artisan-led development.
We commend the artisans, mentors and partners like EDII
who are taking our vision forward with dedication.”
Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII, said, “What makes Hastkala Setu Yojana truly
impactful is its strong connection with the ground realities of artisans. It supports them
not just with skills but also helps them understand how to preserve their heritage, employ
entrepreneurial competencies, use digital tools and grow as entrepreneurs. Geographical
Indications play a big role in giving their work the identity and respect it deserves in the
market. At EDII, we are proud to walk this journey with these artisans, ensuring they not
only protect their craft but also build a sustainable future. This award encourages us to
take this model to even more communities.”
Hastkala Setu Yojana has helped bring back traditional crafts that were slowly fading
away. The Project inspired artisans to trust the process and accept the training and
counselling to revive their heritage. Ms. Mercy Epao interacted with over 200 women artisans and entrepreneurs associated with
EDII, after the induction ceremony. She lauded their commitment to reviving traditional crafts
and creating sustainable livelihoods through enterprise. Speaking on the occasion, she said,
“Women entrepreneurs are at the heart of inclusive growth and community development.
Till date, under the Hastkala Project, EDII has facilitated GI Tags for four crafts. In The Ministry of MSME is supporting and scaling such enterprises through focussed schemes
addition to these, the Institute has also initiated GI tagging for 15 crafts and
and handholding support. I am happy to see the impact that EDII has created by empowering
agricultural products, from Gujarat. These are in the advanced stages of processing.
grassroots-level women entrepreneurs.” She also inaugurated an exhibition where women
entrepreneurs trained by EDII showcased their products across diverse crafts and sectors.
Gujarat Ahmedabad EDII Board Members
Suf Sodagari
Embroidery Block Print In Interaction...

Bharuch Surat
Sujani Sadeli
Weaving Craft D u r i n g h e r v i s i t a t
Ahmedabad, Ms. Mercy Epao
also met Mr. Rajesh R. Gandhi,
Managing Director, Vadilal
“By facilitating market linkages, offering skill development and securing Industries Ltd. Ahmedabad &
GI tags, EDII is ensuring that the rich heritage of Gujarat’s crafts is E D I I G o v e r n i n g B o a r d
recognized globally."
Member.
- Dr. Satya Ranjan Acharya, Project Director, Hastkala Setu Yojana, EDII

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