Assistance to Traditional Pottery Makers

Assistance to Traditional Pottery Makers is a Kerala government scheme that gives financial support to pottery artisans from Other Backward Classes. The scheme helps pottery workers modernize their workshops and buy new equipment so they can compete better in the market. Applications for the current period are accepted online through the official BWIN Kerala portal.

The scheme is run by the Backward Classes Development Department, Government of Kerala, and continues to support families who depend on this age-old craft. Many OBC families still rely on manual and time-consuming methods. This scheme helps them move to modern production tools and build a more sustainable business.

Assistance to Traditional Pottery Makers - Introduction

Assistance to Traditional Pottery Makers supports people who are dedicated to traditional pottery work. The main aim of the scheme is to revive and support this heritage craft by reducing the money burden on artisans and encouraging them to keep working in pottery.

Under the scheme, a selected artisan gets a one-time grant that can be used to buy pottery tools such as wheels, moulds and kilns, or to repair and improve the workspace. The support is based on approved project cost and is subject to department approval. The scheme is now handled through the Backward Classes Welfare and Inclusive Development Network, known as BWIN Kerala.

Key Information

Eligibility

To qualify for this support, an applicant should meet the following conditions:

• Residency and category: The applicant must be a permanent resident of Kerala and belong to the state-recognized Other Backward Classes.
• Active pottery work: The applicant must be actively engaged in traditional pottery work at the time of application.
• Income and age limit: The total annual family income should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh, and the applicant should not be above 60 years of age.
• One-time benefit: People who have already received assistance under this scheme in earlier years cannot apply again.

For example, if Ramesh, a resident of Kerala, earns a total family income of ₹2 lakh and works as a traditional potter, he meets the financial criteria for this scheme.

Benefits

A selected artisan receives a one-time financial grant of up to ₹50,000. Normally, up to 50% of the eligible project cost is supported, subject to a maximum of ₹50,000. For instance, if an artisan plans improvements worth ₹80,000, support may be provided up to ₹40,000.

The grant amount can be used to buy essential pottery tools such as wheels, moulds, kilns and related equipment. Expenses for minor construction, repair or improvement of the pottery workspace or clay preparation area are also allowed, as long as they are directly related to pottery activity.

Application Process

Applications for this scheme are submitted online through the official BWIN Kerala portal. The steps are given below.

STEP 1 - Go to the official BWIN Kerala portal at bwin.kerala.gov.in and complete the online registration.

STEP 2 - Select the scheme named Assistance to Traditional Pottery Makers from the list of available schemes.

STEP 3 - Fill the application form carefully, especially the mobile number and the bank account details in the applicant's name.

STEP 4 - Upload all the required documents listed below and submit the application online. Printouts do not need to be sent to the department.

STEP 5 - If selected, the applicant may need to sign an agreement before the payment is released. After completing the purchase or work, upload the proof including after photos for final verification.

Documents

Applicants should keep the following documents ready while filling the online form:

• Identity and address proof: Aadhaar card copy, ration card copy and residence proof.
• Caste and income proof: Caste certificate for the OBC category and income certificate details as per the e-district process.
• Work proof: A certificate from the local self-government institution stating that the applicant is currently engaged in pottery manufacturing.
• Other certificates: A certificate stating that no similar benefit has been received from the local body or the Khadi Board, along with a detailed project report and photo evidence of the pottery work.

Applicants should also keep a recent passport-sized photograph and a bank passbook photocopy ready. Any other documents requested by the department should be submitted as well.

References

Official Website | Apply Online

FAQ's

What is Assistance to Traditional Pottery Makers?

Assistance to Traditional Pottery Makers is a state-funded scheme that provides a one-time financial grant to OBC pottery artisans in Kerala for upgrading their equipment and workspace.

Which department manages this scheme?

The Backward Classes Development Department, Government of Kerala, runs this scheme through the BWIN Kerala portal.

Who can apply for these benefits?

An applicant can apply if they are a permanent resident of Kerala, belong to the OBC category, are actively working as a traditional potter and have a family income not exceeding ₹2.5 lakh.

What amount of financial help will I receive?

Selected artisans receive a one-time grant of up to ₹50,000, normally up to 50% of the eligible project cost.

Is there a specific income limit?

Yes, the total annual family income should be ₹2.5 lakh or less, and the applicant should not be above 60 years of age.

How do I submit my application?

Applications are submitted online through the official BWIN Kerala portal at bwin.kerala.gov.in.