The Gen Next Competition was introduced by the Department of Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles, and Khadi, Government of Tamil Nadu, in 2013-2014. This initiative aims to ensure the survival and continuation of Tamil Nadu’s rich handicraft traditions by inspiring and engaging young artisans under the age of 30. The competition provides a platform for young talent to showcase their skills, thus promoting the preservation of cultural heritage.
Key Benefits
- Cash Prize: ₹2,000/-
- Silver Medal: Awarded to winners as a mark of excellence.
- Certificate: Recognizing the artisan’s contribution to traditional crafts.
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in the competition, applicants must fulfill the following conditions:
- Residency: The applicant must be a native of Tamil Nadu.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be below 30 years of age.
- Artisan Status: The applicant must be a practicing artisan.
- Handicraft Categories:
The competition covers the following 16 types of handicrafts:- Panchaloka Idols
- Brass Lamps and Artifacts
- Thanjavur Paintings
- Thanjavur Plates
- Wood Carvings
- Stone Sculptures
- Fire Clay Sculptures
- Applique and Kalamkari Work
- Paper Pulp Toys
- Weaving
- Bamboo and Palm Leaf Products
- Neti Work
- Fiber Products
- Temple Jewelry
- Image Stitching Work
- Other Handicrafts
- Examination Details:
- Competitions will be conducted in handicraft industry hubs.
- Centers and dates will be announced by the department.
Application Process
The application process for the Gen Next Competition is conducted offline.
Steps to Apply
- Advertisement Notification:
Look out for advertisements released in June every year. - Obtain the Application Form:
- Print the prescribed format of the application form.
- Fill the Form:
- Complete all mandatory fields.
- Paste two passport-sized photographs (signed across, if required).
- Attach self-attested copies of required documents.
- Submit the Form:
- Submit the completed application form and documents to:
Chairman and Managing Director, Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation, 759 Anna Road, Chennai-600 002. - Applications must be submitted through Poompuhar Sales and Manufacturing Plant Managers during office hours (Monday-Friday).
- Submit the completed application form and documents to:
- Acknowledgment:
- Request a receipt or acknowledgment that includes submission details such as date, time, and unique identification number (if applicable).
Documents Required
Participants must provide the following documents:
- Two Passport-size Photographs
- Birth Certificate (for age verification)
- Educational Certificate (if applicable)
- Address Proof: Family Card, Voter ID Card, or Driving License.
- Aadhaar Card
- Bank Account Details: Front page of the passbook showing account number and IFSC code.
- Artisan’s Affidavit: On ₹20/- stamp paper, attested by a First Class Criminal Judge or Notary Public.
- Recommendation Certificate: Signed by:
- Managers of Poompuhar Outlets or Manufacturing Plants, or
- Area Assistant Directors (Handicrafts), or
- Craft Council Representatives (Tamil Nadu/India/World).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is eligible to participate?
Young artisans who are natives of Tamil Nadu, below 30 years of age, and practicing one of the 16 identified handicrafts. - What are the prizes?
Winners receive a ₹2,000 cash prize, a silver medal, and a certificate. - How many handicrafts are included?
The competition features 16 categories of handicrafts, ranging from Panchaloka Idols to Image Stitching Work. - Can artisans from outside Tamil Nadu apply?
No, only natives of Tamil Nadu are eligible. - Can participants compete in more than one handicraft category?
Yes, artisans can participate in multiple categories if they specialize in more than one craft. - How can young artisans apply?
Interested artisans must fill out the prescribed application form and submit it to the Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation through Poompuhar Sales and Manufacturing Plant Managers. - Where should the application be sent?
Applications must be submitted to the Chairman and Managing Director, Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation, 759 Anna Road, Chennai-600 002. - What documents are required?
Required documents include a birth certificate, Aadhaar card, passport-size photos, and a recommendation certificate. - Where are the competitions conducted?
Competitions are held at prominent centers of the handicraft industry in Tamil Nadu. - Is there any fee for participating?
No, there is no fee for participating in the competition. - Are there any training programs for participants?
No training programs are provided as part of the competition. - What happens if an artisan fails to submit their application on time?
Late applications will not be considered.