New Delhi, Feb 9 (IANS): The Hunar Haat, a marketplace to empower master artisans and craftspersons, has generated employment for nearly 3,00,000 people, said Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Union Minister for Minority Affairs, in Indore on Sunday.

Speaking at the inauguration of a Hunar Haat, Naqvi said, "Their success can be gauged from the fact that about 3,00,000 jobs for master artisans, craftspersons and culinary experts have been created in just 3 years."

It had proved to be a "mega mission" of economic empowerment of master artisans and craftspersons, he added.

According to a Ministry statement, in the next 5 years around 100 Hunar Haats will be organised. It will create employment opportunities for thousands and help in preserving and promoting indigenous traditional legacy, which is on the verge of extinction.

The Centre had sanctioned 100 Hunar hubs in different parts of the country, it said and added, master artisans, craftspersons and traditional culinary experts were being trained at these hubs to meet the modern needs.

"Each Hunar Haat generates crores of rupees of business for indigenous handmade products. The artisans are receiving orders for their products also from international markets," it said.

Lalji Tandon, MP Governor, said the government was working towards strengthening the dream project of the Prime Minister by providing opportunities and markets to the rich heritage of arts/crafts.

At the 9-day Indore Hunar Haat, opened on February 8, 125 stalls have been set up and over 250 master artisans, including several women, are participating.

"These artisans are showcasing exquisite handmade products. Bawarchikhana is providing traditional delicacies of several states," it said.