Kathmandu, Nov. 19: Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has said the handicraft industry would be helpful to make Nepal's ancient art, culture, and skills known to the world. PM Deuba made such an observation while inaugurating the 16th handicraft competition and 17th handicraft trade fair organized here on Friday.

The handicraft industry not only creates jobs within the country but also boosts Nepal's image across the globe, he said, adding that the handicrafts could however be modified to reflect modernism too.

PM Deuba expressed commitment that government would extend support to the promotion of handicrafts. He was of the view that Nepali handicrafts could be made popular globally via the SAARC Handicrafts Development Centre.

On the occasion, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Prem Ale, seconded the prime minister that handicraft would make Nepal popular in the world with the promotion of its art and culture. According to him, the handicrafts trade could be boosted by promoting stone and wooden statues and carvings and Mithila carving.

Chairperson of Nepal Handicrafts Federation, Surendra Bhai Shakya, viewed such a trade fair was being organized with the collaboration of governance since 2048BS. Handicraft is the original industry of Nepal. The fair would help boost the marketing of handicraft products, he hoped.

"Handicrafts have helped create employment. Although there is still the risk of COVID-19, the export of handicrafts stands around Rs 6 billion annually," he added.