Poompuhar District Craft Award is a state-level appreciation scheme run by Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited (Poompuhar) to honor skilled artisans across Tamil Nadu. Winners receive ₹10,000 in cash, a silver medal and an official certificate. Applications for the 2026-27 award year are open, and the department has released the fresh application form on its official website.
The award was first introduced in 2011-2012 by the Department of Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles and Khadi, Tamil Nadu. Every year around 85 craftsmen working in 16 craft categories are selected, and among them 17 women artisans are chosen to encourage more women in the craft field.
Poompuhar District Craft Award - Introduction
The scheme exists to recognize and honor the talent of local artisans district-wise. It is one of the many Poompuhar awards, which also include the State Award, Living Craft Treasure Award and Team Production Award. For the 2026-27 year, the department has released the Poompuhar District Craft Award application form for download.
By providing this accolade, the government encourages the preservation and growth of traditional Indian arts. The award is given every year, so the scheme stays active and continues to support the artisans of the state.
Key Information
| Key | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Poompuhar District Craft Award |
| Level | State |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individual Artisans |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Nodal Department | Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles and Khadi Department |
| Benefit Type | Financial Prize |
| Award Year | 2026-27 |
Benefits
The selected artisans receive the following appreciation under this scheme:
- ₹10,000 as an award cash prize to support the artisan.
- A silver medal as a mark of honor for their craft work.
- An official appreciation certificate from the department.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this award, an artisan should meet the following criteria:
- The applicant should be an active artisan.
- The applicant should be a permanent resident of Tamil Nadu.
- The applicant should work in one of the 16 recognized handicraft categories, such as Panchaloka Idols, Thanjavur Paintings, wood sculptures, mat weaving, or temple jewelry.
- Professional experience and contributions to the craft sector are key factors in selection.
Exclusions
If an artisan has already received this award in the past, they cannot apply again.
Application Process
Offline Application Steps
The department releases advertisements every year. The application form for the 2026-27 award year is now available. Follow these steps to apply:
STEP 1 - Download the Poompuhar District Craft Award application form 2026-27 from the official Poompuhar website.
STEP 2 - Fill in all required information, attach a passport-sized photograph, and make sure all documents are self-attested.
STEP 3 - Submit the completed application during office hours (Monday to Friday) to the Poompuhar Head Office at No.759, Anna Salai, Chennai - 600 002.
STEP 4 - Always request an acknowledgment receipt from the office as proof of submission, including the date and time.
Documents
Keep the following documents ready for the application:
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Valid address proof like a Family Card, Voter ID, or Driving License.
- Aadhaar Card.
- A copy of the front page of the bank passbook.
- An affidavit on a ₹20 stamp paper, signed and attested by a Notary Public or a First Class Criminal Judge.
- A recommendation certificate from a recognized Poompuhar outlet manager or assistant director.
- Representative photographs of the craft item presented for selection.
References
More details are available here:
FAQ's
What is the purpose of Poompuhar District Craft Award?
This scheme aims to honor and encourage talented artisans across Tamil Nadu for their dedication to traditional crafts.
When was this scheme started?
The award was introduced in the 2011-2012 fiscal year.
What is the cash amount given?
Selected winners are awarded a cash prize of ₹10,000 along with a silver medal and certificate.
Can I apply if I have won before?
No, the scheme is only for artisans who have not received this specific award previously.
Are there specific handicrafts covered for this award?
Yes, there are 16 specific handicraft types considered, ranging from wood sculptures and temple jewelry to kalamkari work and mat weaving.
Is there an age limit to apply?
No, there is no age limit for applicants.
Where should I submit the application?
The application should be submitted to the Poompuhar Head Office during working days (Monday to Friday).