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Skills & Employment

Shilp Guru Award

The “Shilp Guru Award” for master craftspersons was introduced by the Ministry of Textiles to honor legendary master craftspersons of handicrafts whose work and dedication have contributed not only to the preservation but also to the promotion of the rich and diverse craft heritage of the country.

Authority

Central

Region

Central Government

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

Award Contents: | - Cash Prize of ₹2,00,000/- | - One Mounted Gold Coin | - One Shawl | - One Tamrapatra | Note: In addtion, appropriate financial assistance will be given to each selected Shilp Guru to innovate and create new products of high level of excellence, high aesthetic value and high quality befitting the stature of the Guru. This assistance will be give as per parameters contained in Design & Technology Up-gradation scheme of Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts). | In addition to above: | - Shilp Gurus shall actively be associated with activities of RD&TDCs. | - Shilp Gurus will be assisted for participating the International Seminar/ Exhibitions in India/abroad for exchange of ideas between Indian Shilp Gurus and internationally reputed craft designers. | - Monographs shall be published on Shilp Gurus who have exceptionally contributed in the field of development, promotion and process of India Art & Craft. | - Shilp Gurus shall be included in the Advisory Committees of the concerned RD&TDC. | - Reputed institutions like NID, NIFT,IICT, IICD etc. will be requested to associate Shilp Gurus in their crafts activities. | - Shilp Gurus shall be included in State Level Committee for selection of National Award. | - EPCH & CEPC shall be requested to bring about a strong linkage of Shilp Gurus with the exporters.

Who can apply

If the craft practiced is a languishing craft.; If there has been a noteworthy effort in term of reviving a languishing craft by way of product diversification or application to contemporary use. In other words, efforts made in order to achieve a breakthrough in the development of craft should be given due consideration.; Design innovation by the craftsmen.; Photographs of processing of others exhibits of different stages produced by the applicant.

Required Paperwork

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Residence Proof (Domicile)

Common Questions

What is the Shilp Guru Award?

The Shilp Guru Award is a prestigious recognition given to legendary master craftspersons in the handicrafts sector for their exceptional skills and contributions to preserving and promoting India's rich craft heritage.

Who presents the Shilp Guru Award?

The award is conferred by the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, through the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts).

When was this Award introduced?

The award was introduced in 2002 to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the Handicrafts Resurgence in India.

What is the objective of the Award?

The award aims to recognize, encourage, and honor outstanding master craftspersons for their lifetime dedication to traditional handicrafts and their role in training the next generation of artisans.

How many Shilp Guru Awards are given each year?

A maximum of 10 awards are conferred annually.

Are National Awardees automatically eligible for the Shilp Guru Award?

No, National Awardees must meet the additional eligibility criteria, such as age, years of experience, and contribution to the craft sector.

Can a State Awardee apply for this Award?

Yes, but only if they are of exceptional standing and meet the other eligibility requirements.

Are artisans from all handicraft sectors eligible?

Yes, artisans from all recognized handicraft sectors in India are eligible for the award.

How can a craftsperson apply for this Award?

Applications can be submitted through the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), State Handicraft Departments, or relevant agencies as per the guidelines.

Can an artisan submit multiple applications for different crafts?

No, an artisan can apply for only one craft category per year.

Who selects the Shilp Guru Award winners?

A National Level Selection Committee, constituted by the Ministry of Textiles, evaluates the applications and finalizes the awardees.

What does the Shilp Guru Award include?

The award consists of: | - A gold-plated plaque. | - A cash prize of [?]2,00,000. | - A Shawl and a Certificate of recognition.

Can an artisan apply for the award multiple times?

If an applicant is not selected in a given year, they can apply again in subsequent years, provided they still meet the eligibility criteria.