Exhibition Component of the Development of Handicrafts Scheme helps artisans from Puducherry boost their sales by paying for their participation in local and national handicraft exhibitions. This state government scheme covers daily allowance, train travel and goods transport costs, so local craftspersons can show their work to more buyers and grow their business.
Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Puducherry manages the scheme. It supports artisans who want to attend exhibitions held within the Union Territory and in other states. As of August 2026, the scheme continues to accept applications from eligible craftspersons through the District Industries Centre.
Exhibition Component of the Development of Handicrafts Scheme - Introduction
Handicraft makers in Puducherry often struggle to find buyers beyond their local market. This scheme removes that barrier by funding their participation in exhibitions, which are among the best ways for artisans to meet bulk buyers, retailers and direct customers. The department either organises these events itself or sponsors artisans to attend exhibitions in other parts of the country.
The main aim is simple: improve the marketability of handicrafts and raise sales. By covering the daily costs of attending an exhibition, the scheme lets artisans focus on selling rather than worrying about expenses. It also encourages them to maintain quality and presentation, since they now have a reliable channel to reach more customers.
Any artisan who runs a handicraft unit in the Union Territory of Puducherry can take part. The scheme is open throughout the year, subject to exhibition schedules and available slots.
Highlights
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Exhibition Component of the Development of Handicrafts Scheme |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary State | Puducherry |
| Nodal Department | Industries and Commerce Department, Puducherry |
| Scheme For | Infrastructure |
| Category | Business and Entrepreneurship |
| Sub Category | Exhibitions, Trade Fairs, Buyer-Seller Meets, Market Development |
| Target Beneficiaries | Business Entity |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Application Mode | Offline |
Benefits
Financial support under this scheme is paid directly to cover the cost of attending an exhibition. The daily allowance depends on the city where the event takes place, with higher rates for costlier cities.
| Benefit Type | Amount (per person) |
|---|---|
| A1 Cities Exhibition Daily Allowance | ₹300 per day |
| Non-A1 Cities Exhibition Daily Allowance | ₹200 per day |
| Local Exhibition Daily Allowance | ₹150 per day |
On top of the daily allowance, the scheme pays back the cost of to-and-fro 2nd class (berth) train travel. It also covers the actual money spent on moving handicraft goods from the unit to the exhibition venue, so artisans do not have to carry heavy stock by hand.
Eligibility
Before applying, check whether you meet the basic conditions set by the department. The rules keep the benefit within the state and make sure only genuine craftspersons get support.
- Applicant must be a permanent resident of the Union Territory of Puducherry.
- Applicant must own or operate a recognised handicraft unit within the Union Territory.
Documents Required
Keep these papers ready before you visit the office, because incomplete files are sent back. Self-attested copies are accepted for most of them, but carry the originals for verification.
- Valid residential certificate proving Puducherry residence.
- Documentary proof of occupation, such as a licence or registration.
- Proof of ownership of a working handicraft unit in Puducherry.
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Application Process
The application is submitted offline at the District Industries Centre. Complete each step carefully so your form is not rejected on technical grounds.
STEP 1 - Download the prescribed application form from the official application forms download area of the District Industries Centre, Puducherry.
STEP 2 - Fill in all the required details correctly and attach a recent passport-sized photograph along with self-attested copies of your supporting documents.
STEP 3 - Submit the complete application package in person at the office of the General Manager, District Industries Centre, Thattanchavady, Puducherry - 605 009, during regular working hours.
STEP 4 - Collect the acknowledgement receipt with the unique reference number issued by the office. Use this number to track the status of your application later.
For any help, call 2248391, 2249392 or 2248987, or write to dic_pdy@bsnl.in.
References
Use these official links for the latest updates, forms and rules related to the scheme.
- Official Guidelines for Development of Handicrafts
- Citizen's Charter PDF
- Download Application Form
- Grievance Redressal Mechanism
FAQ's
What is the main goal of this exhibition scheme?
The scheme improves the market visibility and sales of handicraft products by funding artisan participation in exhibitions across India.
What allowance do I get for A1 city exhibitions?
You receive ₹300 per day as daily allowance, plus reimbursement of 2nd class train travel fare.
How much is the local exhibition allowance?
Artisans taking part in local exhibitions get a daily allowance of ₹150.
Who is eligible to apply?
Any craftsperson who is a permanent resident of Puducherry and owns a handicraft unit in the Union Territory can apply.
Where can I find the official Citizen's Charter?
You can view it directly at the official website.
How do I file a grievance regarding this scheme?
Use the official Grievance Redressal Portal to submit your concerns online.
Does the scheme cover transport costs?
Yes, the scheme pays back the actual money spent on moving your goods from the unit to the event location, along with train fare.
What is the allowance for non-A1 cities?
For exhibitions in non-A1 cities, you receive a daily allowance of ₹200.
How will I know if my application is received?
The District Industries Centre issues a unique reference number on submission, which serves as official acknowledgement of your application.