In this modern era of globalization and privatization, when advancements are at their peak whether in the technological or economic field. Payments are digitizing leading to a cash-free economy and consumers have a wide variety of choices in the domestic market as well as in international markets.
Due to globalization, the domestic front faces very tough competition in terms of quality products but with the enforcement of ‘Vocal for Local’, people opt for domestic products for their originality and uniqueness. Classic and contemporary ideas play a very crucial role in the identity-making and branding of territory and act as a base for sustainable and endogenous development. It constitutes an essential engine for economic development being the major measure of impact on heritage conservation entailing job opportunities for lower-income groups.
India’s diverse economy encompasses traditional village farming and handicrafts with a wide range of modern industries and a multitude of services. Handicrafts represent certain values and reflect a region’s culture and tradition. The handicraft sector is an important segment of the Indian economy and generates sizeable employment as well. The rural economy holds noteworthy significance in the Indian economy and the handicraft sector accounts for an important share of the country’s export market. The total handicraft industry spans different regions and involves thousands of artisans. According to industry sources, there are more than 60,000 export houses dealing with handicrafts in India. Almost all Indian states have their own set of signature handicrafts that reflect the cultural and traditional ethos of that state. However, the sector has its set of problems as well. Low availability of technical support is a significant drawback though some advancement has been made and efforts are on to bridge the gap between demand and supply. In May 2022, the total handicraft export, excluding handmade carpets from India was US$ 120.06 million, a 1.01% increase from April 2022. During 2021-22, the total exports of Indian handicrafts were valued at US$ 4.35 billion, a 2.57% increase from the previous year.
Therefore, it is one of the largest employment generators after agriculture, providing a key means of livelihood to the country’s rural and urban population. Now, it’s our responsibility that our ongoing efforts in the preservation of Indian culture and heritage should be directed towards both tangible and intangible aspects of heritage.
Aahanaa, one of the leading NGOs in the society apart from rendering services in many forms has also contributed to the preservation of Indian heritage and culture by helping artisans to preserve art forms. Every art form revives its originality and uniqueness through creative and hard-working artisans at Aahanna. It tries its level best that no stone is unturned and portrays the best version of it. Our aim is at creating awareness among communities in close proximity as well as the large public.
(Picture Credit- Google images and from original workplace)
Hope this little Snippet helped you know a little more about our Indian Heritage and Culture and its roots in the Indian economy.
Happy Reading!!