President Pranab Mukherjee presented the Shilp Guru Awards and National Awards to master craftspersons for the year 2015 at Rastrapati Bhavan this evening. <br/><br/>The awards are given in recognition of excellent craftsmanship and the major role played by them in continuing craft as a vital part of traditional heritage. <br/><br/>Speaking on the occasion, Mr Mukherjee said, proactive steps are needed to realize the full potential of handicraft sector. He said, promotion of products in both domestic and international markets will expand its geographic reach, achieve economies of scale and make production more viable. <br/><br/>Mr Mukherjee also said, policy support will be necessary to evolve profitable market linkages and ensure easier access to bank credit. He said, the long tradition of knowledge transfer in handicrafts must continue. <br/><br/>The Shilp Guru Award consists of a gold coin and two lakh rupees whereas the National Awards consist of one lakh rupees. The Shilp Guru Awards were instituted to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of the resurgence of Handicrafts in India in 2002. <br/><br/>Since then, 117 artisans responsible for maintaining craft traditions have been selected for the award. Union Textiles Minister Smriti Zubin Irani and Minister of State Ajay Tamta were also present on the occasion.