Key Points

Stone Artisan Park Training Institute (SAPTI), established by the Industries and Mining Department and Geology and Mining, is harnessing the potential of the stone industry while carrying forward the heritage of stone art and architecture. Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of keeping a blend of ‘vikas and virasat’, SAPTI seeks to optimise Gujarat’s stone-industry potential and build on its rich tradition of stone art and architecture.

The state government has set up two artisan parks: one in Ambaji (Banaskatha district) and the other in Dhrangadhra (Surendranagar district). SAPTI–Ambaji in North Gujarat focuses on marble, while SAPTI–Dhrangadhra in the Saurashtra region focuses on sandstone. These centres combine skill training, design exposure, and industry linkages to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled craftsmen.

Success stories have started emerging from these skill-development parks. One notable example is Kuldipsinh Pravinsinh Rathod, who enrolled at SAPTI Ambaji after completing Class X. Hailing from a humble background and a family managing on a meagre income, Kuldipsinh’s dreams were undeterred; through rigorous practice and expert guidance at SAPTI he mastered design methods and stone-carving techniques.

Initially, adapting to design approaches and carving methods was difficult for him, but continuous practice and mentorship helped him progress. Today Kuldipsinh is an expert stone artisan and a skilled lathe-machine operator, earning around Rs 25,000 per month—bringing financial stability and pride to his family. He now aspires to expand into a stone craft studio that blends creativity, traditional artistry, and modern design.

SAPTI also organises events to showcase and promote stone arts. Recently, a symposium at the Statue of Unity brought together 24 sculptors from across the country who created marble sculptures from various stones, assisted by 48 carvers and a blacksmith. The event reinforced SAPTI’s position as a centre for stone sculpture and generated greater awareness and appreciation for India’s stone artistry.

Between 2022 and 2025, SAPTI enrolled about 945 candidates across both centres. A total of 307 candidates successfully graduated from the Ambaji centre, while 331 candidates passed out from the Dhrangadhra centre—demonstrating measurable outcomes from the institute’s training and outreach.

- IANS