Page 126 - IMDR JOURNAL 2023-24

IMDR’s Journal of Management Development & Research 2023-24

According to Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), in the year 2022-23 alone, India's handicraft
exports reached a staggering Rs. 30,019.24 Crores (Fig. 1), showcasing the global appeal and economic

potential of this rich cultural heritage. This figure stands as a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship, diverse
range of products, and inherent cultural value that Indian handicrafts hold. Kolhapuri chappals, for instance,

have found a global audience, with exports reaching Rs 68.5 lakh in April to August of 2020-21. Shipments

reached a total of Rs 1.74 crore in 2019-20. Australia, France, Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Mauritius, Singapore
and South Africa (National Institute of Fashion Technology. (2019-2023). By further nurturing and promoting

these crafts, Viksit Bharat 2047 can not only empower artisans and revitalize local communities but also
position India as a leading exporter of cultural treasures, weaving a future where economic prosperity and

cultural pride walk hand in hand.

S.NO Particulars 2007 2019 % Change
1. Turnover of the Rs. 1,75,28,000 Rs. 1,60,25,000 -8.57%
industry
2. Total Production 3,50,560 2,80,480 -19.99%
(Pairs/Annum)
3. Export from the Indirect Indirect N/A
Cluster
4. Main Product of the Kolhapuri Khas Kapasi, Kolhapuri Khas Kapasi, N/A
Cluster Kurundwadi, Kurundwadi, Kolhapuri,
Kolhapuri, Veniwali, Veniwali, Shahu,
Shahu, Meharban, Puda Meharban, Puda
Punching etc. Punching etc.
Fig. 2 - Annual Turnover of Kolhapur leather industry
While Viksit Bharat 2047 seeks to empower artisans across India's diverse handicraft landscape, Kolhapuri

chappals offer a poignant case study. These handcrafted leather sandals, steeped in Maharashtrian tradition,
hold immense economic potential for local communities. However, a concerning decline in production

(19.99% from 2007 to 2019) (Sannake, A. (2019) (Fig.2), A Study on marketing and pricing strategy of

Kolhapur leather footwear) highlights the need for focused intervention. Viksit Bharat 2047 can act as a
catalyst for revitalization by supporting artisans through modernization, design interventions, strategic

marketing, skill development, fair wages, and sustainable practices. Imagine Kolhapuri chappals, reimagined
yet rooted in tradition, gracing global markets while empowering communities and showcasing India's cultural

heritage. This targeted approach exemplifies how Viksit Bharat 2047 can weave a future where economic

prosperity and cultural pride walk hand in hand. However, this hopeful vision stands in stark contrast to the
current reality of the Kolhapuri chappal. Once a source of pride for Maharashtra, the famous Kolhapuri chappal

is now threatened by a number of issues that could endanger its continued existence. There is a severe labour
shortage that affects the artisan community, which is the foundation of the sector. The younger generation is

not motivated to continue this traditional profession, and artists are often between 50 and 60 years old. They
move to cities for better chances and salary, which leaves a shortage of skilled labour. The lack of social