India can overcome challenge from any quarter: Governor

Kozhikode: India can overcome any challenge from any quarter, Kerala Governor Justice (retd) P Sathasivam said Tuesday addressing a function after inaugurating the fifth edition of 'Sargaalaya Iringal International Handicrafts Fair' at nearby Iringal.

"India is a land of cultural diversity. It can overcome any challenge from any quarter. Geographical, social and religious related cultures of the country sustain the challenges emerging from the foreign invasions," he said.

The Governor said Indian craft and handicraft traditions are influenced by local topography, climate and socio- religious factors. These traditions have withstood the test of time and numerous foreign invasions, he said.

The traditions of crafts in India have a religious value and background which is also inter-twined with the needs of the common man and the ruling class, Sathasivam said.

The handicrafts sector is important for the Indian economy as it is one of the largest generators of employment and accounts for the significant share of country's exports, the Governor said.

Export Promotion Council of Handicrafts of India data says there are 85 lakh registered artisans and products are worth Rs 50,000 crore while exports stood at Rs 24,000 crore.

The Governor said Kerala is one of the fest states to have marketed its natural beauty successfully to the tourists and added that the state's unique heritage and cultural diversity had helped attract tourists from across the world.

Kerala Tourism Minister A P Anilkumar presided over the event.

Handicraft skills of artisans, including national winners, along their products will be on display in the fifth annual Mega season crafts expo up to January 5.

Organised as part of Grand Kerala Shopping Festival, this is considered one of the best handicrafts exhibitions in the country.

The event features over 400 selected artisans from 22 states in addition to 90 participants belonging to Sargaalaya.