Sat Jan 24 08:30:16 UTC 2026: ### Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts to Feature in Singapore Republic Day Celebrations

The Story:

Andhra Pradesh handicrafts are set to gain international recognition as the Indian High Commission in Singapore plans to showcase them during the upcoming Republic Day celebrations. The High Commission has placed an order with Lepakshi, the State-run handicrafts brand, for 400 specially curated gift boxes. These boxes will feature traditional Andhra Pradesh art forms, including Goddess Sita leather puppetry, elephant-shaped baggage tags, and hand-painted elephant-themed coasters.

According to Minister for Backward Classes Welfare, EWS Welfare, Handlooms and Textiles, S. Savitha, this initiative follows the widespread appreciation received by an Andhra Pradesh tableau highlighting traditional crafts at last year’s Republic Day celebrations. The coalition government aims to support artisans by focusing on skill upgradation and modernizing Lepakshi showrooms in major centers like Visakhapatnam, Anantapur, and Kadapa, with plans to expand Lepakshi showrooms internationally.

Key Points:

  • The Indian High Commission in Singapore ordered 400 gift boxes from Lepakshi featuring Andhra Pradesh handicrafts.
  • The gift boxes will include Goddess Sita leather puppetry, elephant-shaped baggage tags, and hand-painted elephant-themed coasters.
  • Minister S. Savitha highlighted the initiative as a continuation of the recognition received at last year’s Republic Day celebrations.
  • The government is focusing on skill upgradation for artisans and modernizing Lepakshi showrooms.
  • Plans are underway to establish Lepakshi showrooms in other countries.
  • The announcement was made on Saturday, January 24, 2026.

Critical Analysis:

The timing of this announcement, coupled with recent news of Andhra Pradesh attracting a significant portion of India’s FDI (25% according to Naidu’s statement in Davos on January 20, 2026) suggests a strategic effort to promote the state’s soft power and cultural exports alongside its economic growth. This also occurs on the same day that Andhra Pradesh was declared a ganja-free state and the LRS deadline was extended. The ganja-free status would bolster the image of the state, while the extension of the LRS deadline could free up other government funding for ventures such as this.

Key Takeaways:

  • Andhra Pradesh is actively leveraging its cultural heritage to enhance its international image.
  • The focus on handicrafts and artisan support aligns with a broader strategy of economic and cultural promotion.
  • The government is committed to modernizing and expanding the reach of Lepakshi, its state-run handicrafts brand.

Impact Analysis:

This initiative is likely to have a positive impact on Andhra Pradesh’s handicrafts sector. The international exposure can lead to increased demand, benefitting local artisans and boosting the State’s economy. The expansion of Lepakshi showrooms internationally could further solidify Andhra Pradesh’s position as a hub for traditional arts and crafts. Furthermore, attracting further FDI from other countries.

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