French Govt honours Puducherry carpenter

Ambassador of France to India Francois Richier today honoured a local carpenter, S Anthuvan, who has taken up restoration of several traditional and artistic wood works in various ancient structures here.
In recognition of his special skill, the French government conferred on Anthuvan the 'Medaille d'honneur du travail' and he was presented the medal by the Ambassador today.
Richier, on the occasion, said preservation of tradition and also heritage structures in Puducherry, a former French colony, would go a long way to augment flow of tourists and pledged his country's support in this regard.
"Traditional buildings and preservation of heritage would be a sustained source to lure tourists and the French government would act in tandem with the initiatives of the Puducherry government in the task of preserving heritage structures," he said at a function in the French consulate here.

Appreciating the skill of the carpenter, the Ambassador said Anthuvan had shown his dedication and love for his work and duty. His contributions had been impressive and he had been conferred the medal for his achievements, special skill and commitment to duty.
"Now a days we might believe that new technics could be substituted to traditional works. But the traditional technics were invented in the past and were adopted in total agreement with the prevailing situation and conditions," he said.

Richier also complimented the interest shown by Chief Minister N Rangasamy, who was also present, for rebuilding the ancient structure of Mairie (Office of Municipal council) on the sea shore which collapsed some months ago under the impact of the rains.

He recalled the recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to France and his discussions with President Francois Hollande on various subjects including archaeology, urban development and heritage preservation in India.
Rangasamy, who also lauded the carpenter for bagging the French honour, said Puducherry government would spare no steps to preserve heritage structures.
"I am also delighted to see that French government is showing interest in participating in our initiatives," he added.
R Radhakrishnan, MP, and French Consul General in Puducherry Philippe Janvier Kamiyama were among those present.