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Skills & Employment; Sports & Culture

Gen Next Competition

The "Gen Next Competition" scheme was launched by the Department of Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles & Khadi, Govt. of Tamil Nadu. A craft competition was started from the year 2013-2014 to encourage the youth to retain the traditional handicrafts of Tamil Nadu & pass them on to the next generation.

Authority

State/ UT

Region

Tamil Nadu

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

- Cash Prize of ₹2,000/-. | - Silver Medal. | - Certificate.

Who can apply

The applicant should be an Artisan.; The applicant should be a native of Tamil Nadu.; The applicant should be below 30 years of age.; Handicraft competitions will be conducted in the following 16 types of handicrafts: Panchaloka Idols, Brass Lamps and Brass Artifacts, Thanjavur Paintings, Thanjavur Plates, Wood Carvings, Stone Sculptures, Fire Clay Sculptures, Applique and Kalamkari work, Paper Pulp Toys, Weaving, Bamboo and Palm Leaf Products, Neti Work, Fiber Products, Temple jewelry, Image Stitching Work, Other Handicrafts.; The examination will be conducted based on places of prominence in handicraft industries. The center and date of the exam will be announced later.

Required Paperwork

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

Common Questions

Can artisans from outside Tamil Nadu participate in the competition?

No, only artisans from Tamil Nadu can participate in the competition.

How many types of handicrafts are included in the competition?

There are 16 types of handicrafts included in the competition, ranging from Panchaloka idols to image stitching work.

Who is eligible to participate in the handicraft competition?

Only artisans from Tamil Nadu are eligible to participate in the handicraft competition.

What is the age limit for artisans to participate in the competition?

Artisans participating in the competition must be below 30 years of age, and they need to attach an age certificate with their application.

How many artisans are chosen for the competition each year?

Each year, 150 artisans are selected for the competition and awarded silver medals, certificates, and a cash prize of [?]2,000.

What are the prizes awarded to the winners of the competition?

The prizes awarded to the winners of the competition include silver medals, certificates, and a cash prize of [?]2,000.

Where will the handicraft competitions be conducted?

The handicraft competitions will be conducted in prominent locations within Tamil Nadu, and the specific centers and dates will be announced later.

Who can recommend a young artisan for the competition?

A young artisan wishing to participate in the competition must be recommended by certain designated officers, such as Poompucar Outlet Managers, Factory Managers, or Regional Assistant Directors (Handicrafts).

What documents need to be attached to the application?

Artisans must attach two photos and proof of residential address (such as Family Card, Aadhaar Card, Voter ID Card, Driving License, or Bank Account Book with photo) with their application.

Where should the completed application forms be sent?

Completed applications should be submitted to the Head Office through Poompucar Sales and Manufacturing Plant Managers.

Is there any fee for participating in the competition?

There is no fee for participating in the competition.

Can artisans participate in more than one type of handicraft category?

Yes, artisans can participate in multiple types of handicraft categories if they meet the eligibility criteria for each category.

Is there any training provided for participants before the competition?

There is no mention of specific training provided for participants before the competition in the provided information.

Are there any restrictions on the size or dimensions of the handicrafts?

There are no specific restrictions mentioned regarding the size or dimensions of the handicrafts.

Are there any accommodations provided for participants during the competition?

There is no mention of accommodations provided for participants during the competition in the provided information.