<h1>India's Handicraft Census: 68.86 Lakh Artisans Identified, Govt Boosts Skills with New Schemes & Market Support.</h1> The ongoing census of handicraft artisans in India estimates 68.86 lakh artisans, with 30.25 lakh males and 38.61 lakh females. To enhance skills in industries like stone and metal carving, the government implements schemes such as Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hastshilp Vikas Yojana and Market Support Services. These include participation in bazaars and international events. The Handloom Census (2009-10) reports 29,08,800 adult weavers, predominantly female. Government initiatives under the Twelfth Five Year Plan aim to promote the handicrafts sector, including new schemes for the North Eastern Region and infrastructure development.