AI SummaryLiving Craft Treasure Award is a prestigious state-level honor introduced by the Tamil Nadu government in 2013-14 to recognize and reward eminent craftspersons aged 65 and above. This scheme gives distinguished artisans a valuable cash prize of ₹1,00,000, a gold medal, a Thamirapattiram, and a formal certificate to celebrate their lifelong dedication to traditional handicrafts. Applications for the 2026-27 award cycle are open now, with the last date extended up to 10 August 2026.
This award is the highest honor for handicrafts at the state level. It is run by the Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles and Khadi Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, through the Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation (TNHDC), better known as Poompuhar. Every year the government selects ten master craftspersons of eminence and gives them a grand benefit package to appreciate their years of service to the craft industry.
Living Craft Treasure Award - Introduction
Living Craft Treasure Award acts as a guiding light for senior artisans who have kept Tamil Nadu's rich cultural heritage alive. The award was announced by the Chief Minister under Rule 110 in the floor of the Assembly and introduced in the year 2013-14. It is meant for craftspersons of eminence who are above 65 years of age and who have made an outstanding contribution to craftsmanship and the development of their craft.
If you are a distinguished craftsperson over the age of 65, this scheme acknowledges your years of service. Successful applicants receive a cash prize of ₹1,00,000, a traditional Thamirapattiram, a precious 8-gram gold medal, and a formal certificate of appreciation. The award is given to ten artisans every year at a total cost of ₹15.00 lakhs, ensuring your hard work receives the recognition it deserves.
Key Information
| Key | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Living Craft Treasure Award |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary State | Tamil Nadu |
| Nodal Department | Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles and Khadi Department (TNHDC / Poompuhar) |
| Introduced In | 2013-14 |
| Award Value | ₹1,00,000 Cash, 8-gram Gold Medal, Thamirapattiram, and Certificate |
| Number of Awardees | 10 artisans every year |
| Application Last Date | 10 August 2026 (2026-27 cycle) |
Benefits
As a chosen Living Craft Treasure Award recipient, you will receive the following benefits:
- A prestigious cash prize of ₹1,00,000 (one lakh rupees).
- A traditional Thamirapattiram as a mark of state honor.
- A beautiful 8-gram gold medal.
- A formal recognition certificate from the government.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this award, you should meet the following criteria:
- You must be a skilled artisan actively contributing to the handicraft industry of Tamil Nadu.
- You should hold residency as a native of Tamil Nadu.
- You must be at least 65 years of age.
- Selection committees will evaluate your specific craft expertise and the service you have rendered throughout your career.
Application Process
You should apply through the offline mode. The application for the 2026-27 award cycle has been released, and the last date for submission has been extended up to 10 August 2026. Follow the steps below to apply.
STEP 1 - Download the official 2026-27 application form from the Poompuhar website.
STEP 2 - Fill in all mandatory details carefully, attach a recent passport-sized photograph signed across, and include copies of all required documents.
STEP 3 - Submit your signed application packet to the Head Office through your local Poompuhar Sales and Manufacturing Plant Managers during standard office hours (Monday to Friday).
STEP 4 - Always collect a receipt or acknowledgment from the authority. Make sure this receipt includes your submission date and a reference ID.
Important Tips: You should make sure all documents are on A4 size paper, page-numbered, and spiral-bound before submission. Please include a CD containing your digital application details and records.
Documents
You will need to prepare the following documents for your application:
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Valid age proof and address proof.
- Aadhaar card.
- Educational or skill qualification certificates.
- Front page of your bank passbook.
- Photographs showing your craftsmanship.
- Character certificate from a well-wisher.
- An affidavit on ₹20 stamp paper, attested by a Notary Public or First Class Criminal Judge.
- A recommendation certificate from a Poompuhar outlet manager or the regional Handlooms/Handicrafts Assistant Director.
References
You can find more details or download the form using these official links:
- Official Application Form 2026-27 (PDF)
- Living Craft Treasure Award Application 2026-27 Notice
- Poompuhar Awards Details (TN Artisan)
FAQ's
Who is eligible to apply for the Living Craft Treasure Award?
Craftspersons who are 65 years of age or older and are natives of Tamil Nadu qualify to apply for this award.
How many artisans receive this award each year?
The committee selects ten artisans annually for this honor at a total cost of ₹15.00 lakhs.
What is the last date to apply for the 2026-27 cycle?
The last date for submission of the 2026-27 application has been extended up to 10 August 2026.
What specific criteria guide the selection process?
Selection depends on your years of professional experience and your unique contributions to the handicraft sector.
Are artisans residing outside Tamil Nadu eligible?
No, this scheme is exclusively for artisans who are natives of Tamil Nadu.
How should I format my application documents?
You should organize all documents on A4 size paper, number the pages, and provide a spiral-bound set, along with a digital copy on a CD.
Does the government cover damages to art pieces during the selection phase?
Please note that the management is not liable for any potential damage to your materials during the competition, and no compensation will be issued for such incidents.