♦ President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Handicrafts Awards for the years 2023 and 2024 at an event held in New Delhi on 9 December 2025. A total of 48 awards were presented, including - 12 Shilp Guru awards and 36 National awards, including 2 Design & Innovation Awards (artisan–designer collaboration). Among the awardees, 20 are women artisans.

♦ Emphasising the socio-economic importance of the handicraft sector, the President said that it employs more than 3.2 million people, most of whom live in rural and remote areas.

♦ The President underlined that handicrafts are closely linked to social empowerment. The sector has traditionally supported weaker sections and has played a major role in women’s empowerment — with women forming 68% of its workforce. 

♦ Ministry of Textiles said that the awards recognise. unparalleled artistic excellence and reaffirm the Government’s commitment to preserving and promoting the country’s rich and diverse handicraft heritage. It is a part of the National Handicrafts Week celebrations. National Handicrafts Week is celebrated annually from the 8th of December, as a tribute to India’s artisans and celebrates the enduring cultural significance of handicrafts.