Handicraft exports from Rajasthan, a leading contributor to India’s handicrafts exports, are expected to see a jump of over 10 per cent this year, according to the industry experts.
The state’s blue pottery, marble handicrafts, hand-crafted brass items, miniature paintings, wooden artefacts and hand-printed textiles are famous all over the world.
It exports blue pottery mainly to the Middle East and America, and miniature paintings and wooden handicraft items to the US and Europe.
Trade pundits expect at least a growth of over 10 per cent during the current financial year. According to them, the state is a leading contributor with a share of 10-11 per cent to India’s handicrafts exports.
However, the artisans and craftsmen working in this sector are not very keen to continue this work. They are unhappy for not getting paid adequately for their products.
They complain that while their products are being sold at high prices they live a life of great suffering, prompting the next generation not to follow suit.
Kumawat said they have repeatedly requested the Central government that due to GST, not only in Rajasthan but also across the country, artisans and craftsmen are in trouble.
“The Central government should do something. If this does not happen, then all these art forms will disappear,” he added.
