PANAJI
The Goa Handicrafts Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation has increased the subsidy on clay idols from Rs 100 to Rs 200 per idol. The subsidy of Rs 200 will be given for maximum 250 idols to artisans engaged in making traditional clay idols. Artisans were demanding an increase in the subsidy amount as the prices of clay and other raw material used to make the idols have risen in the past few years. The plaster of Paris (PoP) idols are cheaper in price compared to clay idols. However, PoP idols cause harm to the environment and water bodies when immersed in them as they do not melt and remain in the water bodies for years, thus polluting them. The clay idol makers have welcomed this decision of the government to double the subsidy amount.
