Bihar Handloom and Handicraft Promotion Scheme
This profile has been independently compiled from official gazette notifications and verified web domains. Source Authority Link: industries.bihar.gov.in Authority: Department of Industries (Bihar) • State/Region: Bihar • Last Audited: 09 Sep 2026
Quick AI Summary
Provides design development, marketing infrastructure, credit facilitation, and GI registration support to handloom weavers and handicraft artisans in Bihar.
Detailed Summary
Scheme Overview
The Bihar Handloom and Handicraft Promotion Scheme is a state-sponsored initiative administered by the Department of Industries, Government of Bihar, through the Bihar State Handloom and Handicrafts Corporation Limited. It targets the preservation and economic upliftment of traditional crafts including Madhubani painting, Bhagalpuri silk weaving, Sikki grass craft, Sujni embroidery, and Khatwa applique work.
Key Components
- Design Development: Engagement of empanelled national-level designers from NIFT, NID, and IICD for product diversification and contemporisation of traditional motifs.
- Marketing Support: Sponsorship of stall rentals and logistics for participation in national-level exhibitions such as India International Trade Fair, Surajkund Mela, and Dilli Haat, alongside state-level marketing events.
- Credit Facilitation: Convergence with the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) and Mudra Yojana for collateral-free working capital and term loans up to ₹10 lakh.
- GI Registration: Financial and technical assistance for Geographical Indication filing, prosecution, and renewal for eligible craft clusters.
Implementation Architecture
The scheme operates through District Industries Centres (DICs) for beneficiary identification and the Bihar State Handloom and Handicrafts Corporation for fund disbursement and programme execution.
Key Benefits & Financial Assistance
| Comparison Criteria | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Key Benefits |
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Eligibility Criteria Profile
| Comparison Criteria | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age Limit | 18 Years or above |
| Maximum Age Limit | 60 Years or below |
| Maximum Family Income | ₹300,000 per annum or below |
| Occupation Status | Self-Employed |
| Domicile State | Bihar Domicile |
Application Process Guide
- Obtain Artisan/Weaver Identity Card from respective District Industries Centre (DIC) by submitting Form-A with photographs and skill verification
- Collect prescribed application form from DIC or download from Department of Industries portal (industries.bihar.gov.in)
- Complete application with mandatory enclosures: Aadhaar, Domicile, Income Certificate, Caste Certificate (if applicable), Bank Passbook, Artisan ID Card, and passport photographs
- Submit physical application at DIC; obtain acknowledgement receipt with tracking number
- DIC conducts field verification and forwards recommendation to Bihar State Handloom and Handicrafts Corporation
- Corporation sanctions benefits; financial assistance disbursed via DBT to linked bank account
- For exhibition participation: apply 30 days prior to event through DIC with product catalogue and photographs
Common FAQs regarding this Yojana
Any permanent resident of Bihar aged 18-60 years, actively engaged in notified handloom or handicraft activities for at least three years, holding a valid Artisan/Weaver Identity Card issued by the District Industries Centre, with annual family income not exceeding ₹3 lakh, is eligible. Priority is accorded to SC, ST, EBC, Women, Divyangjan, and Minority artisans.
The scheme provides full reimbursement of stall rental charges up to ₹25,000 per event and a transportation allowance of ₹5,000 for participation in exhibitions approved by the Bihar State Handloom and Handicrafts Corporation, including national events like IITF, Surajkund Mela, and state-level melas.
Credit support is facilitated through convergence with CGTMSE and PM Mudra Yojana. Eligible artisans apply through DIC for collateral-free loans up to ₹10 lakh. The scheme provides 5% interest subvention per annum on the sanctioned loan amount, disbursed directly to the lending bank upon submission of utilisation certificate.
GI registration assistance is provided at the cluster or association level, not for individual artisans. A one-time grant of ₹50,000 is sanctioned to registered artisan clusters, cooperatives, or producer companies for filing, prosecution, and maintenance of GI applications for crafts originating in Bihar.
The application process is mixed. Forms can be downloaded from the Department of Industries portal (industries.bihar.gov.in) but must be submitted physically at the concerned District Industries Centre along with original documents for verification. Online submission facility is not currently operational for this scheme.
The notified crafts include: Madhubani Painting, Bhagalpuri Silk Weaving, Sikki Grass Craft, Sujni Embroidery, Khatwa Applique, Stone Carving (Gaya), Wood Work (Bettiah), Lac Bangles (Muzaffarpur), Tikuli Art, and Manjusha Art. The list is periodically updated by the Department of Industries.