Sat Dec 13 14:24:55 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summary and rewrite based on the provided text:

Summary:

The Handlooms and Textiles Minister of Andhra Pradesh, S. Savitha, along with other officials, honored five national award-winning artisans and distributed toolkits to 100 artisans in the Tirupati district. The event, held in Srikalahasti, aimed to promote and preserve the state’s handicraft traditions through the Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited (APHDC)’s Toolkit Distribution Programme. The program is part of the National Handicrafts Development Programme (NHDP), providing artisans with tools worth ₹10,000 each.

News Article Rewrite:

Andhra Pradesh Celebrates and Supports its Handicraft Artisans

TIRUPATI, December 13, 2025 – Andhra Pradesh’s rich handicraft traditions received a boost today as Handlooms and Textiles Minister S. Savitha led a ceremony in Srikalahasti, Tirupati district, recognizing the talent and dedication of local artisans.

The Minister, accompanied by A.P. Government’s Handloom and Handicrafts Advisor Suchitra Ella and MLA Bojjala Sudheer Reddy, felicitated five artisans recently honored with national awards by the President of India: Gorsa Santosh (Etikoppaka toys), D. Sivamma (leather puppet craft), P. Vijaya Lakshmi (Kalamkari hand painting), and Khande Anjanappa & Khande Harinath (leather puppetry craft).

In addition to the honors, 100 artisans from Madhavamala and Srikalahasti received essential toolkits as part of the Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited (APHDC)’s Toolkit Distribution Programme. Funded under the National Handicrafts Development Programme (NHDP), the initiative provides each artisan with tools valued at ₹10,000.

“This initiative aims at promoting and preserving the State’s rich handicraft traditions,” stated APHDC Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Vishwa M. The toolkits include hand-operated tools, electronic machines, and other accessories, designed to enhance the artisans’ productivity and craftsmanship.

The APHDC also provides ongoing marketing support through its 19 Lepakshi Emporiums and organizes training and technical development programs. The organization also creates marketing platforms by organising Gandhi Shilp Bazaars with the financial support of the DC (H).

The Andhra Pradesh government continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting and celebrating its vibrant handicraft sector, ensuring the preservation of these valuable cultural traditions for future generations.

Read More