logo naukrinama

How Modern Tools Are Transforming Odisha's Handicraft Sector

In a significant move to uplift traditional artisans in Odisha, the government has launched a program to distribute modern toolkits aimed at enhancing productivity and income. This initiative, which will see 1,200 toolkits distributed across 12 districts, focuses on empowering artisans and expanding their market opportunities. With a special emphasis on the Appliqué craft, recognized for its Geographical Indication status, the program seeks to preserve the authenticity of traditional crafts while improving their competitiveness in contemporary markets. Learn more about how this initiative is set to transform the handicraft landscape in Odisha.
By Ambika Singh Sep 7, 2026, 22:15 IST

Empowering Artisans with Advanced Tools


Bhubaneswar/Khordha: The strength of handicrafts lies in the skilled hands of artisans, and the introduction of modern tools is set to enhance this strength, stated Pradip Bal Samanta, the Minister for Co-operation, Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts. This announcement was made during the launch of a new tool distribution initiative aimed at traditional artisans in Bhakarsahi, Khordha district, on Monday.


This program is designed to modernize the traditional handicraft sector in Odisha, boost artisans' productivity, and increase their earnings. At the event, 150 artisans specializing in Appliqué craft received modern toolkits. Over the current financial year, a total of 1,200 advanced toolkits will be distributed in phases to artisans across 12 districts as part of this government-supported initiative. Samanta emphasized that this program goes beyond just tool distribution; it is focused on empowering artisans, broadening their market access, and enhancing their livelihoods.


The initiative aims to assist traditional artisans in adopting better tools and techniques, thereby improving the quality and productivity of their handicraft items. The toolkits have been approved for seven handicraft sectors, including Appliqué, wood, stone, horn, iron, terracotta, and brass metal crafts, under a scheme backed by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, for the financial years 2024-25 and 2025-26. Appliqué, also known as Chandua, is a unique traditional craft of Odisha that has received Geographical Indication (GI) status. This initiative seeks to help artisans maintain the authenticity and heritage of their craft while improving the quality and competitiveness of their products in modern markets.


The Odisha State Co-operative Handicrafts Corporation Ltd (Utkalika), founded in 1959, has been dedicated to the welfare and development of artisans by providing marketing support, access to raw materials, and facilitating both forward and backward linkages, all while promoting and preserving Odisha's rich handicraft heritage. The launch event was attended by Utkalika Chairperson Debasmita Sahu, Vice-Chairperson Prashant Kumar Mahapatra, Additional Secretary of the Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Department, Utkalika Managing Director Chinmayee Biswal, Deputy Director (Handicrafts) Santosh Kumar Mahanty, and other senior officials.


FROM AROUND THE WEB