Craft as a Growth Engine for Viksit Bharat 2047

December 17, 2024

Viksit Bharat @2047 is India’s ambitious roadmap to becoming a developed nation by 2047, marking the centenary of its independence. The vision centers on inclusive economic participation, with Youth (Yuva), Women (Mahilayen), Farmers (Annadata), and the Poor (Garib) as its core pillars. The five themes guiding this vision include Empowered Indians, Thriving and sustainable economy, Innovation, science, & technology, good governance & security and India’s global standing.

In this transformative journey, craft stands out as a key sector with immense potential to act as a growth engine for Viksit Bharat 2047. The Indian craft industry, encompassing handicrafts and handlooms, employs over 7 million people, with women making up 56% of its workforce. The sector is characterized by its diversity, producing items such as woodware, metal ware, sculptures, pottery, glassware, incense sticks, jewelry, handwoven and hand-block printed fabrics, woolen textiles, and carpets. India have more than 744 handicraft clusters and offering over 35,000 unique products, predominantly in rural and semi-urban areas. Export figures highlight its global significance: during April–July 2024, handicraft exports were valued at ₹9,917.99 crore (approximately USD 1.18 billion).

Craft aligns seamlessly with the four pillars of Viksit Bharat, offering holistic economic growth and social upliftment by creating job opportunities and skill-training programs. Craft can engage the unemployed rural youth, empowering women artisans fosters financial independence and elevates their social status, agricultural by-products like bamboo, cane, and natural dyes can create a synergistic relationship between agriculture and craft and craft-based livelihoods provide sustainable income for marginalized communities.

Craft plays a vital role in achieving 12 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing poverty, gender equality, decent work, sustainable communities, and reduced inequalities. To maximize the sector's potential, integrating crafts under the Ministry of Skill Development with craft-specific training programs is essential. Establishing new craft clusters with enhanced facilities, connectivity, and market access, along with linking craft activities to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), can provide financial stability to rural artisans. Expanding schemes like One District One Product (ODOP), offering design training, and creating design banks can boost product innovation. Strengthening institutions like the Indian Institute of Craft and Design for policy and educational support, combined with digital empowerment through e-commerce and market access, will further uplift the craft sector. Focused investment in the craft sector can yield transformative outcomes for India’s development. As a labor-intensive industry, it provides significant employment, especially in rural and semi-urban areas by engaging women and youth ensures improved socio-economic conditions in underserved regions. Boosting exports brings in foreign exchange and enhances India's global economic standing. The low capital investment and high value addition make craft a cornerstone of a sustainable economy. Additionally, the use of natural materials enhances its environmental sustainability. The craft sector embodies the ethos of inclusive and sustainable development. By empowering artisans and bridging economic disparities, it has the potential to become a driving force behind India’s transformation into a developed nation. As we journey toward Viksit Bharat 2047, investing in and promoting the craft sector will not only preserve India’s rich cultural heritage but also pave the way for economic growth, innovation, and global recognition. Craft, with its economic and social impact, stands poised to weave a brighter future for India.

Dharmendra Bana
Assistant Professor IICD

Viksit Bharat @2047 is India’s ambitious roadmap to becoming a developed nation by 2047, marking the centenary