Patna: In a bid to foster self-reliance and skill development among the youth, particularly women, the Bihar government has announced a free six-month training scheme in traditional handicrafts. The initiative, spearheaded by the Upendra Maharathi Shilp Anusandhan Sansthan under the state’s Industries Department, invites applications for its July–September session.
A total of 400 participants will be selected for training in 18 traditional crafts, including Madhubani, Tikuli and Manjusha paintings, Terracotta work, applique embroidery and block printing. The scheme is divided into two phases – three months of basic training followed by three months of advanced instruction – and will be offered at no cost to the trainees.
Selected candidates will receive a monthly scholarship of RS. 1,000 along with a training kit. Additional financial support has been allocated to candidates travelling from outside Patna Municipal Corporation limits. Women trainees from such areas will receive RS. 1,500, while male trainees will be granted Rs. 2,000 per month, subject to attendance, to cover accommodation and meals. Hostel facilities will also be available.
The entrance exam and interview are scheduled to take place on June 23 at 11am on the institute’s Patna campus. Interested applicants can submit their applications online via www.umsas.org.in.
