On the sidelines of IHGF Delhi Fair – Autumn 2015, handicraft artisans from various places – Narsapur, Jodhpur, Bhuj and Kashmir had a direct interaction with senior officials of the Ministry of Textiles. Briefing the artisans, Dr. S. K. Panda, Secretary, Textiles highlighted the big role the handicrafts sector has, in providing employment to rural population. Dr. Panda pointed out two major developments, which has impacted the promotion of handicrafts: The level of education has gone up, there being educated youth in most artisan families; and Internet and other IT based interventions have bridged the gap between urban and rural areas with digital connectivity.
The Secretary said that there is a need to target high-end customers. He added that there is a need to change our mindset along these lines. He also highlighted the need to better understand what the market needs, in terms of size, colour and designs. Technology has made this easier, enabling artisans to interact with anyone across the world, through smart phones, he said.
The Secretary said that an online location-wise directory of handicrafts products is being made, with contact details of artisans from each cluster, which would facilitate buyers to get in touch with them. He said that efforts are on to provide more financial assistance to start-up entrepreneurs and to link Self-Help Groups with export groups.
