Andhra Pradesh handicrafts have earned fresh international praise. The Indian High Commission in Singapore ordered 400 special gift boxes for India’s Republic Day. Each box features AP’s traditional art like Goddess Sita leather puppetry, elephant-shaped baggage tags, and hand-painted elephant coasters. Minister S. Savitha said on January 24, 2026, this is a proud moment reflecting AP's rich artistic heritage. The recognition follows last year’s Republic Day, where the AP crafts tableau received huge applause. The government is supporting artisans through skill training and blending old art with new designs. Lepakshi, the state’s handicrafts brand, is getting a makeover with 15 modern showrooms in cities like Visakhapatnam, Anantapur, and Kadapa. Plans to open Lepakshi showrooms abroad are also underway, boosting AP handicrafts worldwide, the Minister added.