Traditional Indian Textiles: Reviving Heritage and Addressing Challenges for Artisans
Description
Description: Explore the significance of traditional Indian
textiles in preserving culture and generating livelihoods. Learn about
initiatives and recommendations to overcome challenges and promote these rich
heritage crafts.
Traditional Indian Textiles: Reviving Heritage and Addressing Challenges for Artisans
Traditional Indian textiles can be divided into:
Embroidered textiles (Phulakri, chikankari),
Resist dyed textiles (Bandhani, Ikat),
Printed textiles (Kalamkari , Bagru prints) and
Hand-woven textiles (Banaras Brocades, Kashmir Shawls) etc.
Significance
Represents Culture of the region
Create jobs and preventing rural to urban migration.
contributes around 3% to the GDP of the country.
opening of international markets for artisan communities and development of rural tourism.
Issues
Unorganised sector, low wages, long working hours etc.
quality of products is not at an acceptable level to be exported
Artisans are unable to build a loyal customer base
financial shortage
unable to compete with the increased competition from mills
Initiatives taken to promote Traditional craft
National Handicraft Development Programme (NHDP): To create a globally competitive Handicrafts Sector and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to artisans through innovative products designs, improvement in product quality, introduction of modern technology, branding & marketing.
Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme (CHCDS): To scale up infrastructural and production chain at Handicrafts clusters across country which have remained unorganized.
Ambedkar Hastshilp Vikas Yojna (AHVY): To mobilise artisans into self-help groups and societies with agenda of facilitating bulk production and economies in procurement of raw materials.
Handicrafts Mega Cluster Mission (HMCM): To provide adequate infrastructural support for improved quality and productivity, to enable access of artisans to a larger market segment, both domestic and international.
Marketing Support and Services Scheme: It provides interventions for domestic marketing events to artisans, such as providing financial assistance for organising or participating in marketing events in India.
Recommendations
Encourage innovation in design and product development
Support ancillary artisans and professions
Recognize women artisans and provide equal opportunities
Focus on training and skill development
Provide technology and infrastructure
Create systematic database
