Odisha Handicraft Training SIDAC: A New Era Begins
The State Institute for Development of Arts & Crafts (SIDAC) has unveiled a landmark initiative to expand structured training programs across 15 additional traditional handicrafts of Odisha.
The announcement was made at a high‑level meeting chaired by Commissioner‑cum‑Secretary Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar, with Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta as chief guest.
Odisha currently recognises 64 crafts, with SIDAC already running courses in six—Appliqué, Terracotta, Pattachitra, Palm Leaf Engravings, Stone Carving, and Wood Carving.
The new curriculum will now cover Coir, Jute, Solapith, Coconut Shell, Lacquer, Bamboo, Batik Printing, Tribal Jewellery, Palm Leaf Decoratives, Silver Filigree, Brass & Bell Metal, Seashell, Papier‑Mâché, Saora Painting, and Gond Painting.
The one‑year program spans 1,500 hours, with 1,450 hours dedicated to practical training and 50 hours to theory.
Modules include raw material handling, design innovation, quality control, entrepreneurship, digital marketing, project work, and internships.
Successful trainees will earn four credit points under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 framework.
SIDAC already operates 39 training centres across 26 districts through Guru‑Shishya Parampara, Craft Village, and Master Craftsperson programs.
This expansion aims to safeguard Odisha’s cultural heritage while empowering artisans with modern skills, stronger market linkages, and improved livelihood opportunities.
