TEXTILES OF UTTARAKHAND CRAFT-DESIGN INTERVENTIONS + DIGITALIZATION

Abstract

Handloom and handicrafts play a vital role in India, being the second-largest industry in rural areas after agriculture. Indian handicrafts have become a significant economic activity, providing employment to millions of weaver households. The rich and diverse varieties of Indian handlooms have garnered global appreciation, contributing to India’s cultural and heritage reputation. However, artisans face challenges in directly reaching their customers, leading to a supply-demand gap. To address these issues, research was conducted in Uttarakhand handlooms to understand the artisans’ pain points, surroundings, culture, lifestyle, and gather suggestions for their economic and lifestyle improvement. To support the Indian handicrafts and handloom industry, three key areas were identified: “Design, Marketing, and Technology interventions”. A major highlight was the need for a single application that connects customers and artisans on a common platform. The application was designed with four main features for buyers: customization options, authenticity verification, ready stock availability, and educational content about various crafts. For artisans, the platform offers access to government schemes, easy product uploading, trend awareness, and continuous learning to stay updated. This study explores how these initiatives can serve as a pivotal solution in supporting the indus try amidst its challenges. Central to this transformative solution is the platform’s ability to bridge the existing gap in the supply and demand chain, empowering artisans by granting them access to a broader customer base.