The “Infrastructure and Technology Support: URBAN HAAT” is a sub-component of the National Handicrafts Development Programme (NHDP) launched by the Ministry of Textiles. The primary objective is to establish permanent marketing infrastructure in towns and metro cities to offer direct marketing platforms for artisans and weavers. The haats also feature rotating stalls serving authentic regional cuisines, enhancing buyer and tourist experiences.
Scheme Key Highlights (Short Summary)
• Scheme under NHDP by Ministry of Textiles
• Financial aid of ₹8 crore per Urban Haat unit
• Renovation assistance up to ₹2.5 crore
• SPV/PAMC includes DC(HC), DC(HL), and IFW rep
• Land to be provided by implementing agency
• Mini Urban Haats allowed based on feasibility
• Features include stalls, dormitories, food courts, stage, toilets, and more
Benefits
• ₹8 Cr per Urban Haat unit: 40% by DC(HC), 40% by DC(HL), 20% by implementing agency
• Special Areas (NER, J&K, Ladakh, A&N, Lakshadweep): 45% by DC(HC), 45% by DC(HL), 10% by implementing agency
• Land must be contributed by implementing agency
• Renovation funding: up to ₹2.5 Cr (100% funded by DCs)
• Mini Urban Haats: financial aid proportional to number of stalls, land area, and deliverables
Deliverables (Post-Financial Assistance):
• 50–80 stalls (10×8 sq ft each)
• Toilets (2 each for ladies and gents)
• Dormitory for 100 craftspersons
• Food Court and Cultural Pavilion
• Store Room, Meeting/Conference Room, and Souvenir Shop
Tourist/Buyer Benefits:
• Year-round craft bazaar with food, leisure, and cultural activities
• Modeled after successful Dilli Haat format
Eligibility
• Local statutory bodies, Apex Co-operative Societies, National-level Apex Societies (registered under Society/Trust Act)
• Producer Companies supported by O/o DC(Handicrafts)
• Implementing Agencies must have a minimum audited turnover of ₹1.5 Cr in each of the last 3 years
• Turnover condition not applicable for Central/State Govt. agencies
Application Process
Offline – Implementing Agencies
• Step 1: Download and fill the prescribed proforma
• Step 2: Attach all required self-attested documents
• Step 3: Submit hard copy to the concerned Handicraft Service Center (HSC)
• Step 4: HSC forwards with recommendation to DC(HC) HQ and Regional Director
• Step 5: Ensure timely delivery to DC(HC) HQ
Offline – Artisans
• Step 1: Download online application form
• Step 2: Fill all fields including Aadhaar, Craft info, Contact details, etc.
• Step 3: Upload self-attested documents related to past participation, assistance received
• Step 4: Tick declaration and submit
• Step 5: Receive Reference ID and acknowledgment via Email/SMS
Documents Required
For Fresh Proposals
• Duly filled proposal in prescribed proforma
• Recommendation from field/regional office
• Valid registration certificate
• Memorandum & Articles of Association
• Bye-laws of organization
• Audited balance sheets (last 3 years)
• Annual report of last year
• Affidavit on non-corrupt practices and registration validity
• Land ownership/lease document, DPR
• Feasibility report by scheduled bank
• Authenticated construction plan and cost by Architect/Engineer
• Chartered Engineer/Valuer report on equipment
• Undertaking for balance cost to be borne by IA
• Any additional documents requested
For Reimbursement Proposals
• Monthly Performance/Achievement Report with photos
• Verified expenditure report from HSC/field unit
• Utilization Certificate (GFR 12A) by CA and IA
• Audited expenditure and account statement by CA and IA
• Inspection report from field AD
• Any other supporting documents required
Declaration by Applicant (Fresh/Reimbursement)
• No assistance from other sources for same project
• Full understanding of scheme provisions
• Infrastructure availability to implement project
• No duplication with other schemes
• No involvement in corrupt practices
• No pending UCs with O/o DC(Handicrafts)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the full form of NHDP?
A: National Handicrafts Development Programme
Q: What are the objectives of the Urban Haat component?
A: To set up permanent marketing infrastructure for artisans and weavers
Q: What shall be the area of the Haat?
A: Typically includes 50–80 stalls, dormitories, and other common facilities
Q: Will stall allotment be fixed or rotational?
A: On a rotational basis to ensure wider artisan participation
Q: What is the full form of SPV?
A: Special Purpose Vehicle
Q: What is the role of SPVs?
A: Implement and manage the Urban Haat projects
Q: What is the financial ceiling for implementing agencies?
A: ₹8 crore per Urban Haat unit
Q: What percentage of financial assistance is borne by O/o DC(HC)?
A: 40% (or 45% for special areas)
Q: What percentage is borne by the implementing agency?
A: 20% (or 10% for special areas)
Q: In case of A&N Islands, what share is borne by O/o DC(HC)?
A: 45%
Q: What is the assistance for renovation of existing Haats?
A: Up to ₹2.5 crore
Q: Is financial support available for Mini Urban Haats?
A: Yes, based on feasibility and requirements
Q: How many stalls must be erected?
A: 50–80 stalls of 10×8 sq. ft. each
Q: How many toilets should be constructed?
A: Two each for men and women
Q: What other facilities must be included?
A: Dormitory, Food Court, Cultural Stage, Conference Room, Souvenir Shop
Q: What are the tourist benefits?
A: Leisure and craft bazaar like Dilli Haat, attracting both domestic and foreign visitors
Q: Where can I find the scheme guidelines?
A: Available via the official Ministry of Textiles or DC(Handicrafts) portals
Q: Where can I get the proposal proforma?
A: Downloadable from the official DC(HC) website
Q: To whom should the proposal be addressed?
A: To the Head Office of O/o the DC(Handicrafts) via the concerned HSC