FHAN Urges Swift Rollout of National Handicraft Development Policy

The Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN) has urged the government to immediately implement the “National Handicraft Development Policy”.

It said delays are stalling the growth of a sector that employs thousands and generates billions of rupees each year.

Industry leaders made the appeal to Anil Kumar Sinha, Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies, at an event in Lalitpur on Sunday, December 14. The programme marked FHAN’s 53rd anniversary and the 14th Handicraft Day.

FHAN officials said the draft policy has already been submitted to the ministry.

Federation President Rabindra Shakya criticised what he described as the government’s lack of ownership of the sector, which exports handicrafts worth Rs 25–30 billion annually.

“There is no dedicated body to oversee an industry that supports small, medium and household-based enterprises,” Shakya said. He called for the establishment of a separate handicraft department or division.

Responding to the concerns, Minister Sinha said he would hold discussions and address the demands on a priority basis. “The government considers the sector important for employment generation, use of domestic raw materials and preservation of cultural heritage,” the minister added.

Bagmati Province Industry Minister Bindu Shrestha said the provincial government is working to promote handicrafts beyond the Kathmandu Valley. She announced that the province would formally observe Mangsir 28 as Handicraft Day from next year (2083 BS).

Senior Vice President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Anjan Shrestha said the private sector would support efforts to strengthen the industry. He said this would include linking entrepreneurs with district-level chambers, reducing reliance on imported raw materials and promoting entrepreneurship through education.

FHAN also honoured 11 leading handicraft exporters and senior artisans for their contribution to the sector.