December 12: Nepal exported handicraft products worth Rs 12 billion last year, according to the Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN). 

The federation made this revelation on Monday during a press meet organized to inform about the upcoming 20th Handicraft Trade Fair and 18th Handicraft Competition.

The federation's President Prachanda Shakya informed that the handicraft products made in Nepal were exported to over 60 countries.    
Nepali handicraft products have made significant contribution to the national economy, thus, warranting special attention from the government and others concerned for its protection and promotion, he stressed.    

The federation is organising the 18th Handicraft Competition and the 20th Handicraft Trade Fair at Hotel Annapurna, Durbar Marg, from December 14 to 18. The organisers informed that the fair will have three pavilions with 130 stalls.    
The fair is expected to draw more than 100,000 visitors, according to the organizers.    
Anyone securing first position in the competition will get cash prize of Rs 50,000, while the second position holder will receive Rs 30,000 and the third-place finisher will bag Rs 20,000. Similarly, 10 senior citizens and noted artistes of over 70 years would be honoured on the occasion. -- RSS