PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
In a show of unity and self-reliance, goldsmiths from 21 States came together in Dehradun for the ‘Vocal for Local – Shapat and Samvaad’ event, organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Swarnakar Sangh on Sunday.
Speaking at the event, chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami requested the State’s goldsmiths to attempt and present Uttarakhand’s traditional jewellery at the global stage. He said that the whole world is being attracted to India’s art, culture and designs, considering which traditional designs should be moulded according to the global market demand to fulfill the dream of ‘local to global’, he said. Appreciating the role of goldsmiths in preserving India’s cultural heritage, he assured full support from the State to boost skill training, digital tools and better opportunities for artisans.
The programme was led by Sunil J Singh, chairman of the National Traders’ Welfare Board, Government of India.
This national-level gathering highlighted the Central government’s commitment to strengthening traditional Indian trades, local businesses, and skilled artisans as part of the larger Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. The central moment of the event was the oath-taking ceremony, where a large number of artisans pledged to give preference to Indian-made products, promote the Make in India mission and support local artisans and handicrafts. Addressing the gathering, Singh praised the spirit of the Swarnakar community and said that local artisans are the foundation of India’s economic and cultural strength. He encouraged them to see themselves not only as craftsmen but as nation builders who represent India’s identity across the world.
To support traders and artisans directly, Singh also announced a new initiative- a weekly virtual conference (VC) every Monday from 3 PM to 4 PM, led by the National Traders’ Welfare Board. This platform will allow artisans to raise concerns, give feedback, and connect directly with government representatives — ensuring transparency, speed and support.
