After Diwali exhibition UP Mati Kala Board to have permanent sale outlet

Lucknow: The UP Mati Kala Board, encouraged by the success of its Diwali exhibition, has now decided to open a permanent outlet for the sale of its products in the state capital.

The Mati Kala Board held its first exhibition and sale on Diwali and this was aimed at promoting clay artisans of the state. The artisans were allotted stalls to sell their products that ranged from Ganesh-Lakshmi idols to diyas, pots, terracotta and decorative items.

Products worth around Rs 50 lakh were sold in 10 days at the venue.

The event helped in branding and promotion of the board and the artisans.

"We received a huge response. Now, there would be a permanent outlet selling clay products round the year in Lucknow," said an official spokesman.

More details would be known once a budget is allocated for it, sources said.

The outlet will have a range of items like crockery, vessels and those of home decor. Other products under the ODOP (One District One Product) scheme would be added on.

The efforts of the board are directed towards making the market competitive for artisans which will not only improve quality of products but also get them a better price.

The Mati Kala Board was established by the Yogi government in July 2018. Artisans making clay products for generations were given standardised dyes to make idols this time.

The dyes were designed by empanelled artists. Besides ensuring supply of clay to artisans, the board also provided training by empanelled sculptors so that artisans can use the dyes better.

Additional chief secretary, MSME, Navneet Sehgal said that more work will be done on quality improvement and branding so that artisans can develop their own market.