Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], February 03: The Stone Artisan Park Training Institute (SAPTI), established under the vision of Shri Narendra Modi, is being strengthened to provide training, employment, and market opportunities in the stone craft industry. Operating from Ambaji and Dhangadhra, SAPTI empowers rural and tribal youth with skills in stone carving and sculpture.
Under recent reforms, SAPTI now operates under direct government oversight, with a State Nodal Unit ensuring better coordination. Infrastructure upgrades include hostels, advanced training labs, and faculty residences, supported by GMDC.
SAPTI has partnered with Kaushalya – The Skill University (KSU) and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University to offer certified diploma courses, with plans for degree programs.
To expand market reach, SAPTI has launched the “AARAR” brand, with retail outlets at Ambaji Temple Trust and upcoming stores at Ekta Mall, Kevadia. E-commerce initiatives are also in progress.
SAPTI promotes Gujarat’s stone artisans at national and international exhibitions and hosts the “Shilpotsav” festival, showcasing sculptures on themes like spirituality, heritage, and environmental conservation. These works are displayed at Ambaji, Gandhinagar, and the Statue of Unity.
Moving forward, SAPTI aims to establish a dedicated e-commerce platform, introduce new academic programs, and strengthen Gujarat’s global footprint in stone art and sculpture.
