Handicraft Mela Participation Scheme — Subsidised Mela Stalls for Artisans — Frequently Asked Questions

It is a Gujarat government scheme that helps the state's craftspersons showcase and sell their products at handicraft fairs. It is run by the Industries and Mines Department, Government of Gujarat, and implemented through the Industrial Extension Cottage, known as iNDEXT-C. The support is practical rather than a cash prize — stall space, promotional help and on-site logistics at state and national-level melas.

There is no fixed amount, and the value varies by mela and participant. The scheme is a grant-type programme delivered mainly as free or heavily subsidised stalls, promotional and branding support, and basic infrastructure at venues. Selected participants may also receive financial incentives, with priority for artisans from SC, ST, SEBC and EWS categories. Because the support is largely in kind rather than a lump sum, your benefit depends on which melas you are allocated.

You must be a resident of Gujarat, hold a valid Artisan ID Card issued by iNDEXT-C or a recognised authority, and work in a traditional handicraft listed under the scheme — embroidery, pottery and woodwork are the examples given. All three conditions apply together.

Yes. Registered clusters, cooperative societies and NGOs are eligible, provided at least 10 artisans are affiliated with the organisation. These applicants must also submit their registration certificate and audit reports along with the application form.

There is none. The scheme operates on a rolling, always-open basis, so applications are accepted continuously and you can apply whenever your documents are ready rather than waiting for a specific window.

The eligibility conditions listed for this scheme do not include DPIIT recognition or MSME/Udyam registration. What matters instead is Gujarat residency, a valid Artisan ID Card and specialisation in a traditional handicraft for individual applicants, or a valid registration plus at least 10 affiliated artisans for organisations.

No. This is a government grant-type scheme, and the assistance arrives as subsidised exhibition space, promotion and logistics support. Nothing in the scheme requires you to give up a stake or to repay the support you receive.

Individual artisans need their Artisan ID Card, while organisations need their registration certificate and audit reports. Attach self-attested copies of everything, and complete all mandatory fields on the prescribed form, including personal or organisation details, Artisan ID and handicraft category.

Download and print the prescribed application form from the official iNDEXT-C website, fill it in and attach self-attested copies of the required documents. Submit the signed form and its enclosures either to your nearest District Industries Office or directly to the iNDEXT-C headquarters in Gandhinagar. Selection outcomes are communicated by SMS or email.

Applications are examined by a selection committee at iNDEXT-C, which checks them against the eligibility criteria — residency, Artisan ID and handicraft specialisation for individuals, and registration plus the minimum of 10 affiliated artisans for organisations. Preference is given to artisans from SC, ST, SEBC and EWS categories, and successful applicants are notified by SMS or email about their allocation to a designated mela.

Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.