IN-PERSON Barcelona. Section B

Abstract

This paper delves into the rich heritage of Indian toy-making, which has been an integral part of the country’s cultural tapestry since ancient times. The traditional art of crafting toys from local materials not only serves as a medium for showcasing Indian culture to the world but also holds significant potential for generating opportunities, employment, and fostering growth within local communities. Channapatna, located in rural Karnataka, is the cradle of handcrafted wooden toys, the art of which was developed during Tipu Sultan’s rule in Mysore. With over 300 local families engaged in this craft, this town boasts a strong global export business of these toys. Focusing on the toy-making craft, this study seeks to analyze its transformative impact on the lives of locals in the town. Industrial clusters, defined as geographic concentrations of companies cooperating with local communities, play a crucial role in efficiently sharing resources, leading to improved economic gains and equitable enhancement of environmental quality. In support of local empowerment and skill development, the Ministry of Textile, Government of India, has launched the Handicraft Technical Training Programme under “SAMARTH.” This research aims to analyze government policies’ effectiveness in supporting local communities, utilizing both secondary and primary data collection methods. The research involves structured interviews with locals enrolled in the program and on-site observations to understand the policy’s real-time impact on the community. The study contributes to our understanding of the intersection between traditional crafts, government initiatives, and sustainable community development.