Gandhinagar, Sep 30 (NationPress) The upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference, set for October 9-10, will highlight the state government’s dedicated focus on skill development across various sectors, including stone craftsmanship, as part of the initiative to create an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.

A key focus will be on the role of the Stone Artisan Park Training Institute (SAPTI) in preparing and empowering future generations of stone artisans and craftsmen.

SAPTI, initiated by the Industries and Mining Department and Geology and Mining, aims to tap into the potential of the stone industry while preserving the rich heritage of stone art and architecture.

In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of integrating ‘vikas’ (development) with ‘virasat’ (heritage), SAPTI strives to maximize the opportunities for Gujarat’s stone industry while celebrating its historical craftsmanship.

The government has established two artisan parks: one in Ambaji (Banaskatha District) and the other in Dhrangadhra. The SAPTI-Ambaji in North Gujarat emphasizes marble, while the SAPTI-Dhrangadhra in the Saurashtra region focuses on sandstone.

Success stories are already emerging from these skill development parks, such as the inspiring journey of Kuldipsinh Rathod, who transitioned from a student to a skilled stone artisan.

Kuldipsinh Pravinsinh Rathod, a Class X student, joined SAPTI Ambaji after finishing school. Coming from a modest background, his family managed on limited income, yet his aspirations remained high. He mastered the craft and now aims to secure a brighter future for his family.

Initially challenged by design methods and stone-carving techniques, he improved significantly through persistent practice and expert mentorship at SAPTI. Today, he excels as a stone artisan and skilled lathe operator.

Now earning approximately Rs 25,000 monthly, he brings both financial security and pride to his family, aspiring to expand into a stone craft studio that merges creativity, traditional artistry, and contemporary design.

A recent symposium at the Statue of Unity gathered twenty-four sculptors nationwide, creating marble sculptures from various stones with the assistance of 48 carvers and a blacksmith. This event not only solidified SAPTI’s status as a stone sculpture hub but also heightened awareness and appreciation for India’s stone artistry.

For those unfamiliar, SAPTI has enrolled approximately 945 candidates across both centers from 2022 to 2025, with 307 graduates from the Ambaji center and 331 from Dhrangadhra.