In an initiative to boost local craftsmanship and traditional industries, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav supported “Vocal for Local” during this Dhanteras by purchasing earthen lamps (diyas) and idols of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Laxmi from artisans in Bhopal. While visiting stalls near T.T. Nagar Stadium, CM Yadav interacted with artisans Sunil and Lucky Prajapati, along with Bablu Prajapati, who expressed their appreciation for his ongoing support of their livelihood. The Chief Minister’s recent exemption of market fees for street vendors during the festival season was especially welcomed by the Prajapati artisans and others selling locally crafted products.
Market Fee Waiver: A Boost for Small Vendors
Addressing the media, Dr. Yadav elaborated on his decision to waive market fees for street vendors from Dhanteras through Ekadashi in both urban and rural areas. This move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader “Vocal for Local” vision and aims to provide relief to small-scale vendors who rely heavily on festival sales. By reducing the financial burden on these vendors, Dr. Yadav hopes to encourage more consumers to choose locally made products over imported alternatives.
Local Artisans Appreciate the Support
For many artisans, this waiver not only means more sales but also represents a recognition of their hard work and dedication. Vasu Kumar, an artisan from Narsinghpur, highlighted that potter families, like his, have been practicing their craft for generations, producing items such as earthen pots, rangoli materials, idols, piggy banks, karbe (vessels), and diyas. These items are often sold at affordable prices and are cherished in households across the region for their unique craftsmanship and cultural significance. Kumar expressed gratitude that the district administration has further supported local artisans by providing them with designated spaces in high-traffic markets to sell their products without market fees.
Challenges in the Market for Traditional Crafts
Rohit Chakraborty, another artisan from Narsinghpur, emphasized the challenges that potters face when competing with imported goods. Many artisans travel considerable distances—often on motorcycles, handcarts, or bicycles—to sell their clay creations. He said that products like Chinese lights and diyas have increasingly flooded the market, sometimes overshadowing traditional clay diyas during festive seasons. Despite this, he sees a silver lining in the recent pushes from both Prime Minister Modi and CM Yadav, urging the public to support local craftsmanship by buying locally made products. These appeals, Chakraborty believes, have helped redirect attention toward the cultural and environmental value of clay products.
Preserving Heritage and Promoting Sustainability
CM Yadav’s support for local artisans serves multiple purposes: it promotes the continuity of ancestral crafts, sustains local industries, and contributes to environmental conservation. Unlike plastic or other synthetic materials, clay diyas and utensils are eco-friendly, decomposing naturally without harming the environment. By purchasing traditional diyas and clay items, consumers are indirectly supporting these artisans and contributing to environmental sustainability.
A Call to Action: Support Local Artisans This Festive Season
The festival season is a crucial period for artisans and small business owners in Madhya Pradesh. Through initiatives like the market fee exemption, the state government is showing its commitment to sustaining local industries and the livelihoods of those who rely on festival sales. This Dhanteras, the call for “Vocal for Local” resonates strongly, encouraging people to choose handmade, eco-friendly products that support the region’s artisans and preserve India’s rich heritage.
