150 Odisha Applique Artisans Get Advanced Tool Kits

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150 appliqué artisans in Khordha received advanced tool kits to improve productivity and product quality.
The initiative is being implemented through Odisha State Cooperative Handicrafts Corporation Limited (UTKALIKA).
The Centre has approved 1,200 advanced tool kits for artisans across seven handicraft sectors in 12 Odisha districts.

BHUBANESWAR: As Odisha works to give its traditional handicrafts greater access to modern markets, 150 Odisha appliqué artisans in Khordha district received advanced tool kits on Monday.

The kits were distributed at a programme held at Bhakarsahi under Banamalipur in Khordha as part of an initiative by the Odisha State Cooperative Handicrafts Corporation Limited (UTKALIKA).

The initiative aims to help traditional artisans improve productivity, product quality and earnings by using modern tools that can reduce production time and meet changing market requirements.

Odisha Applique Artisans to Benefit From Modern Tools

The advanced tool kits are designed to help artisans work more efficiently while improving precision and the overall quality of handicraft products.

Officials said the intervention would allow artisans to produce better-quality items in less time and respond more effectively to contemporary market demand.

The programme is intended to go beyond the distribution of equipment by supporting artisan skills, market opportunities and livelihoods.

Chandua Work Gets Support Through the Initiative

Appliqué, popularly known as Chandua work, is one of Odisha’s distinctive handicraft traditions and has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

The craft is closely linked with Odisha’s cultural heritage and traditional textile artistry. Modern tools are expected to help artisans preserve the craft while improving their ability to produce goods for changing markets.

1,200 Advanced Tool Kits Approved for Odisha Artisans

For the financial years 2024-25 and 2025-26, the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, approved 1,200 advanced tool kits for artisans across 12 districts of Odisha.

The kits cover artisans working in seven handicraft sectors:

Appliqué
Wood craft
Stone craft
Horn craft
Iron craft
Terracotta
Brass metal craft

The remaining approved tool kits will be distributed in phases during the current financial year.

UTKALIKA’s Role in Supporting Artisans

UTKALIKA has been working for the welfare and development of Odisha’s artisans since 1959.

The organisation provides market facilities, marketing support, raw materials and forward and backward linkages. It also contributes to the preservation and promotion of Odisha’s traditional art and handicrafts.

Cooperation, Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Minister Pradeepp Bal Samanta said modern tools could help strengthen the skills of artisans and take their traditional work to new levels.