A Study on the Socio Economic Status of Rural Handicraft Artisans in Hezamara R.D Block West Tripura District, Tripura

Abstract

In common parlance, handicraft is a traditional work where useful and decorative items are made completely by hand or using only simple tools. The handicraft sector plays a major role in rural economic development. The definition of handicrafts given by task force is, handicrafts are items made by hand, often with the use of simple tools, and are generally artistic and/or traditional. They include objects of utility and an object of decoration. Handicrafts were traditionally considered a cottage industry in India. Here are myriad of handicraft tradition in India, which depend on social, economic and regional factors. Handicrafts are unique expressions of a particular culture or community through local craftsmanship and materials. It is no longer possible to look at traditional artisan communities and their products in isolation from global market trends and competition. Handicraft is one of the key instruments in uplifting the socio-economic status of the poor and underprivileged people in the Indian village. Handicraft industry is unique in terms of design, cost and quality of products thus provide a competitive advantage on other national and international players of handicrafts market. Despite the various advantages, the handicrafts industry still needs to explore and identify various opportunities and challenges. Once artisans had better socio-economic status in the society, today, they are unable to meet their livelihood requirements. Their economic status is adversely affected by various factors that are challenging progress of the indigenous traditional arts by disrupting the artisans rural market. Low income and poverty are the perennial features of the craft workers households which are responsible for the low level of motivation among the workers.