Page 128 - IMDR JOURNAL 2023-24

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

Furthermore, cultural preservation extends beyond simply safeguarding traditional designs. Integrating
contemporary aesthetics and functionality, while ensuring ethical production practices, can attract wider

audiences and maintain cultural relevance in the modern world. Additionally, educational programs aimed at
younger generations can foster skill transmission and appreciation for the craft's heritage. By addressing these

diverse aspects, the Kolhapuri chappal can transcend its nostalgic value. It can become a powerful tool for

empowering artisans, revitalizing local communities, and ensuring the continued evolution of a unique cultural
legacy. This holistic approach, drawing inspiration from the successes of other handicrafts worldwide, can

pave the way for a brighter future for the Kolhapuri chappal and the communities it represents.

3. Methodology
Through a careful examination of secondary sources, this study explores the socioeconomic potential of
Kolhapuri chappals in accomplishing the objectives of Viksit Bharat 2047. Government websites offering

information on export figures and policies pertaining to handicraft industries and rural development included

Kolhapur.gov.in and the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (epch.in). Academic project papers, such
as Amruta Dilip Sannake's a Study on marketing and pricing strategy of Kolhapur leather footwear, The

analysis of the current trend in Kolhapuri chappals and the issues and future prospects facing the industry was

greatly aided by academic research papers such as Problems and prospects of leather footwear industry in
Kolhapur city by Miss Shinde Supriya Bajarang and Dr. Shendage R. N and Empirical study on design and

development of hand-crafted footwear. Through careful examination of these credible sources, we aim to build
a comprehensive understanding of the potential avenues through which Kolhapuri chappals can contribute to

achieving the multifaceted goals outlined in Viksit Bharat 2047.

4. Findings and Discussions

Based on data retrieved from secondary sources, the findings are presented below.
1. Employment and Livelihoods: Case Studies like evolving an ICT Platform for a Traditional Industry:

Transforming Artisans into Entrepreneurs by B. Bowonder, S. Sadhulla and Akshay Jain highlight the
significant employment potential within the Kolhapuri chappal industry, particularly in rural areas. This

presents a crucial opportunity for community empowerment by providing sustainable livelihoods for artisans
and reducing dependence on traditional, often precarious occupations. Our analysis suggests this could

potentially uplift of families within the community.

2. Skill Development and Knowledge Preservation: Research by Traditional Crafts. A Literature Review
Focused on Sustainable Development provides a literature review of traditional crafts and their relevance to

contemporary society, as well as their potential contribution to sustainable development. The review highlights

the complex relationships between crafts and sustainability, with both positive and negative connections.