At the Mega Handicrafts Exhibition-cum-Conference in Chennai, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister presented the Living Craft Treasure Award to veteran artisans. Instituted by the State government in 2013-14, the award recognises lifetime contribution to traditional handicrafts and is open to craftspersons aged 65 or above who have practised their craft for many years. Ten artisans are chosen every year. Each awardee receives Rs 1,00,000 in cash, an 8-gram gold medal, a Thamirapattiram (copper plate) and a certificate, making it one of the State's key honours for heritage crafts.