The USTTAD Scheme was launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Minority Affairs to preserve traditional arts and crafts of minority communities while providing skill training and employment opportunities to minority youth. The scheme follows a training and market linkage approach, enabling artisans and craftsmen to upgrade their skills and pass them on to future generations.
Objectives
- Train and upgrade the skills of master craftsmen/artisans.
- Provide structured training to minority youth in traditional arts and crafts.
- Preserve and promote India’s rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship.
- Establish market linkages for traditional artisans to help them sell their products globally.
- Improve employability of artisans and youth in traditional arts and crafts.
- Provide livelihood support to economically marginalized communities.
- Promote research and development in traditional arts and crafts.
Traditional Arts and Crafts Covered
The scheme supports skill development in multiple traditional arts, including:
- Handloom Weaving
- Carpet Weaving
- Embroidery
- Pottery
- Metalwork
- Wood Carving
- Stone Carving
- Painting
- Sculpture
- Calligraphy
- Music & Dance
Implementation
The USTTAD Scheme is implemented through Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs), including:
- Registered NGOs/Societies with at least 3 years of experience in skill development.
- Professional institutions recognized for conducting traditional skill training.
- Industry associations like ASSOCHAM, CII, FICCI willing to run training centers.
- Government institutions, universities, and PSUs conducting training programs.
These PIAs identify artisans, develop training modules, and provide skill training to eligible minority youth.
Benefits
- Free training in a traditional art or craft.
- Stipend support during training:
- ₹10,000 per trainee for non-residential training.
- ₹13,000 per trainee for residential training.
- Job placement assistance after completion of training.
- Market linkage support for trained artisans to sell their products.
Eligibility Criteria
For PIAs (Project Implementing Agencies):
- Must be a registered society, institution, or industry association with at least 3 years of experience in skill development.
- Must have market linkages to support artisans.
For Beneficiaries (Trainees):
- Must belong to a minority community (Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Jain, or Parsi).
- 25% seats may be allotted to BPL candidates from non-minority communities.
- 3% reservation for differently-abled candidates from minority groups.
- Age Limit: 14-35 years (Relaxable for differently-abled candidates).
- Minimum Educational Qualification: Class 5 (Relaxable for differently-abled candidates).
- More than one member of a family can be trained in the same art/craft form if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Application Process
Offline Mode:
- Find a Project Implementing Agency (PIA) offering the scheme in your region.
- Obtain the application form from the PIA.
- Fill out the form and attach the required documents.
- Submit the completed form to the PIA for verification.
- Once selected, beneficiaries will be enrolled in the training program.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card (Proof of Identity).
- Voter ID/Driving License (Proof of Address).
- Minority Certificate (Issued by a religious leader or caste certificate).
- Age Proof (Aadhaar Card, Birth Certificate, or School Certificate).
- Educational Qualification Certificate (If applicable).
- Disability Certificate (If applicable).
- Income Certificate (For BPL applicants).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the objective of the USTTAD scheme?
A: The scheme aims to preserve traditional arts and crafts among minority communities while providing employment opportunities through skill training and market linkages.
Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Minority youth aged 14-35 years with a minimum Class 5 qualification (relaxable for differently-abled candidates).
Q: What benefits are provided?
A: Free skill training, stipend (₹10,000 – ₹13,000), and employment support after training.
Q: How can I apply?
A: Contact the nearest Project Implementing Agency (PIA), fill out the application form, and submit the required documents.
Q: Can multiple family members receive training?
A: Yes, if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Q: What documents are required?
A: Aadhaar, minority certificate, address proof, educational certificate, and income proof (if applicable).
Q: How can I find the nearest PIA?
A: Visit the Ministry of Minority Affairs website or contact local skill development centers.