July 24, 2013, Panaji, Goa: South Asia Foundation is launching micro-finance initiative for the Goan artisans [registered with the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India] on July 27, 2013 at 11:30 am at Black Box, Kala Academy Goa, DB Marg, Campal, Panaji.
Hon’ble Governor of Chattisgarh Shri Shekhar Dutt who has been actively supporting many initiatives of the South Asia Foundation in South Asia has kindly consented to be the Chief Guest on the occasion and formally launch this initiative of the Foundation in Goa.
All the senior officials of the Nationalised Banks situated in Goa are also likely to attend the programme. This is the first ever initiative by any Non-Governmental organisation to cover all the artisans of North Goa.
Brand “Hand-made in Goa”, handicrafts products of Goan artisans will also be displayed. SAF makes an effort to emphasize on creating a strong marketing network which is key to success to artisans’ way of life. More than 100 artisans and SHG leaders are expected to participate in the programme. All these artisans are registered with the South Asia Foundation as a part of 2500 strong artisans group who are being supported by the South Asia Foundation for creating a sustainable model of development that could be artisan led.
South Asia Foundation (SAF), set up in 1991, has been working in Goa for more than 5 years, at various villages, reaching at the doorsteps of the communities in the remote locations of North Goa. SAF initiatives in Goa aim at Branding, Marketing of the craft and effective Micro-financing to the artisans. SAF is currently providing benefits to more than 2500 artisans and has various projects in North Goa including the annual South Asian Film Festival (saff).