The Research & Development Scheme is a part of the National Handicrafts Development Programme (NHDP) under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. It aims to generate feedback on economic, social, aesthetic, and promotional aspects of various crafts and artisans. The scheme sponsors surveys, studies, and organizes workshops, seminars, and conferences to enhance the handicrafts sector.
Key Highlights
- Surveys & Studies
- Mapping and documentation of craft clusters and market trends.
- Studies on the availability of raw materials, technology, and design.
- Market evaluation for domestic and overseas handicrafts.
- Techno-economic feasibility studies.
- Financial Assistance
- Registration of GI crafts and preparation of legal documents.
- Protection of endangered crafts, heritage, and traditional knowledge.
- Census of Handicraft Artisans published in handbook/e-book format.
- Support to handicraft exporters for global standards adoption.
- Workshops & Seminars
- Covering specific issues in the handicrafts sector.
- Evaluation of NHDP Schemes through impact assessment studies.
- Need-Based Financial Assistance
- Provided to Government departments, national institutes, export promotion councils, etc.
Benefits
- 100% grant-in-aid for eligible organizations.
- Payments are made through PFMS in two installments:
- 75% advance of the sanctioned amount.
- 25% reimbursement after project completion.
Financial Assistance for Conducting Studies/Surveys
| Position | Max. Amount (₹ per month) |
|---|---|
| Project Leader | 50,000/- |
| Senior Research Expert (2) | 35,000/- each |
| Junior Research Fellow (2) | 25,000/- each |
| Investigator [Graduate] (3) | 15,000/- each |
| Computer Operator (1) | 10,000/- |
| Documentation & Videography | 50,000/- |
| TA/DA | 18,000/- |
| Miscellaneous | 5% of total cost |
| Administrative Charges | 3% of total project cost |
Financial Assistance for One-Day Seminar/Workshop
| Expense Head | Max. Permissible Amount (₹) |
|---|---|
| Halls & Infrastructure | 60,000/- |
| Boarding & Lodging for Experts (4) | 9,000/- per head |
| Travel for Resource Persons | 12,000/- per person |
| International Experts | 70,000/- or economy airfare |
| Honorarium to Resource Persons | 4,000/- per person |
| Travel Assistance to Participants | 2,000/- per artisan |
| Daily Allowance for Participants | 300/- per artisan |
| Documentation & Videography | 40,000/- |
| Hiring of Conveyance | 50,000/- |
| Refreshments & Meals | 400/- per participant |
| Publicity & Banners | 65,000/- |
| Miscellaneous | 5% of total cost |
| Administrative Cost | 3% of total cost |
Note:
- Survey/Study duration: 3 to 12 months.
- Seminar/Workshop duration: 1 day (extendable with special approval).
Eligibility
Grants-in-aid can be given to:
- Autonomous organizations registered under relevant statutes.
- Producer Companies, Section-8 Companies, NGOs, and Educational Institutions.
- Urban & Rural Local Self-Government Institutions.
- Export Promotion Councils, Central Cottage Industries Emporium, and National Crafts Museum.
- State/Central Government agencies.
Application Process
Online Submission
- NGOs must apply through the NGO Portal (Government agencies can apply online or offline).
- Proposals are reviewed by a committee chaired by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts).
- Proposals exceeding financial limits are forwarded to the Project Approval and Monitoring Committee (PAMC).
Documents Required
For Fresh Proposals
- Proposal in prescribed format.
- Valid registration certificate (Self-attested).
- Memorandum of Association & Bye-laws.
- Balance sheets of the last three years.
- Affidavit stating no involvement in corrupt practices.
- List of proposed beneficiaries & project locations.
- Bank details (Account Number & IFSC code).
For Reimbursement Proposals
- Recommendations from Regional Director/Asst. Director.
- Verification report of expenditures.
- Statement of expenditure with payment details.
- Utilization certificate (GFR 12A).
- Inspection report & Performance cum Achievement Report.
- List of participating artisans.
- Event photographs and videography with attendance sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How will the selection of artisans be done?
The selection is based on the guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Textiles.
2. Is there any reservation or preference for artisans?
The scheme does not specify reservation, but preference may be given based on government policies.
3. Where will the beneficiary details be uploaded?
All beneficiary details must be uploaded on the official NGO portal.
4. How will the selection of project leaders and resource persons be done?
Selection is based on experience, expertise, and approval by the concerned authority.
5. How will the inspection and monitoring of this scheme be conducted?
A monitoring committee ensures compliance with scheme objectives and financial guidelines.
6. What is the mode of payment to beneficiaries?
Payments are made exclusively through PFMS (Public Financial Management System).
7. What is the purpose of this scheme?
To generate research insights, protect handicrafts, and improve artisan livelihoods.
8. What does NHDP stand for?
National Handicrafts Development Programme.
9. What is the maximum amount for a Senior Research Expert?
₹ 35,000 per month.
10. How many Senior Research Experts are required for studies?
A maximum of two experts per study.
11. How many investigators (graduates) are required?
A maximum of three investigators per study.
12. Where can I find the scheme guidelines?
The guidelines are available on the official website of the Ministry of Textiles.
13. Where can I find the application form?
The application form is available on the NGO Portal and Ministry of Textiles website.
14. What is the duration of surveys/studies?
Studies can last 3 to 12 months, depending on project requirements.
15. Can the financial limit be changed?
Yes, limits can be revised with special approval from the competent authority.
16. How is the financial assistance disbursed?
It is released in two installments.
17. What percentage of financial assistance is given in the first installment?
75% of the sanctioned amount is given as an advance.
18. What percentage of financial assistance is given in the second installment?
25% is reimbursed after project completion.
Sources and References
- Scheme Guidelines
- Application Form
- Documents Required