Punjab Minister for Industries & Trade, Mian Aslam Iqbal inaugurated the state-of-the-art Metal Craft Artisans Village near Kot AbdulMalik at Sheikhupura Road, today. This village is constructed on the land of 4-acre costing Rs. 18-crore and 34-workshops for artisans has also been made in the village. These workshops were allotted to artisans through transparent balloting in the presence of Provincial Minister for Industries. Vast area and big hall has also been built for exhibition of products prepared by artisans. While addressing the inaugural ceremony, Provincial Minister for Industries Mian Aslam Iqbal has said that PSIC has taken a great initiative by constructing Metal Craft Artisans Village which would help to boost cottage industry. This project will also help to promote regional culture metal art and handicrafts. Excellent opportunity to enhance employment is provided to those who work hard to earn the bread and butter for their children. Government has provided this facility to highlight the art of the artisans, he added. Mian Aslam Iqbal has said that the purpose of establishing this village is not to collect revenue for the government but to alive the dying art, now it is depend on artisans how they get benefit from this project. He said Punjab government has evolved an action plan for the revival of cottage industry, every district of Punjab is famous for some kind of art and government has decided to revive the cottage industry in all the districts of Punjab in the next three years. He said that loans scheme for the promotion of SMEs have also been approved and will be launched soon. He said that metal industry will be improved and the name of country will be enlightened by promoting their arts. He said that I will take surprise visit of the village and if any workshop found not functioning, the allotment of it will be cancelled. He said that a display centre has been provided to the artisans and now it is their responsibility to use it properly. Provincial Minister also visited workshops and participated in the process of balloting. MD PSIC briefed about the projects, Secretary Industries, officers of the PSIC and artisans attended the ceremony.
