Minister visits Kumhar Colony to promote ‘Vocal for Local’

With Diwali around the corner, Delhi’s Social Welfare Minister Ravinder Indraj Singh on Friday visited Kumhar Colony in Uttam Nagar, interacted with local artisans, and purchased earthen lamps, utensils, and decorative items to promote the spirit of ‘Vocal for Local.’

Members of the Kumhar (potter) community accorded the minister a warm welcome during his visit, which also saw the presence of Uttam Nagar MLA Pawan Sharma.

Singh made digital payments while buying the products to encourage artisans and shopkeepers to adopt cashless transactions. “The call for ‘Vocal for Local’ by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a new identity to indigenous products and local industries across the country,” Singh said.

“Such initiatives not only strengthen the economic condition of the artisan community but also give new recognition to indigenous industries and the Make in India mission. This will help us move closer to the vision of a developed Delhi,” he added.

Extending Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s festive greetings to the Prajapati community, Singh said the Delhi Government was continuously promoting handicrafts and empowering artisans to become self-reliant. He said the government was considering the formation of a Mati Kala (Clay Art) Board to take concrete steps for the social and economic upliftment of the Kumhar community.

“Traditional craftsmanship is not just a profession but an integral part of India’s cultural identity. Every auspicious occasion begins with the lighting of a lamp, and it is the Kumhar community that creates those symbols of purity and light. They are the true creators,” Singh said. He claimed that while the Prajapati community had faced neglect under previous administrations, the current government was working to provide technical support and resources to ensure their holistic development.