NMDFC has introduced a scheme of vocational training for persons belonging to minority communities to develop their skills and knowledge with a view to make them competent for wage employment or self employment.Under this scheme, SCAs organise need based vocational training programmes in their States with the help of local recognised training institutions.Such programmes are generally of duration around six months.85% of the cost of the training is met by NMDFC as grant while remaining 15% of the cost is borne by the SCA.The SCAs are required to pose their proposal to NMDFC on prescribed format for approval and sanction of funds.

With a view to support the craft persons in market promotion and sale of their products at remunerative price. NMDFC welcomes proposals from SCAs as well as NGOs for organising exhibitions at selected locations.In these exhibitions, handlom/handicraft products of minority craft persons are exhibited and sold.Such exhibitions also serve the purpose of “Buyer – Seller Meet” which is considered very useful for product development and market promotion for domestic consumption as well as exports.NMDFC provides grant for organising exhibitions after due appraisal of the proposals.

In this fast changing world, people’s perception, likings and tastes are changing rapidly.Therefore, the handloom and handicraft items made by craft persons have to be latest in terms of design and aesthetics and competitive in terms of cost.Craft persons may require exposure to new designs and training to upgrade their skill to meet this challenge.NMDFC welcomes proposal from SCAs as well as NGOs for organising design development/skill development training programme for the craft persons of minority communities.After due appraisal depending upon the merit of the proposals, NMDFC provides grant for organising the such programmes.