After the agriculture sector, it is the handloom and handicraft Sector which provides massive employment to rural people. Odisha has a rich tradition of producing handlcraft products. Even the skill and knowledge imbibed over the generation has given the State metal handicrafts with an unparalleled depth, range, strength and vigor. Handicraft is one of the richest and resilient medium of ethnic expressions. For the artisan, it is not just a commercial venture, but it represents the philosophy and way of life. Thus, Odisha still retains its place of pride for unique and exquisite dhokra craft creations. Right from producing superior artistic crafta of excellence, this industry also produces utility items for the common masses at cheaper cost out of the unused brass metal.
However, in face of teething competition in open market, the strengthening of the industry and its diversification is needed for its survival. To achieve this end different Government schemes have been formulated under the Development Commissioner Handicraft. The cluster comprises a sizeable number of professional artisans from SC and few from ST community, which in total accounts for 80% of the Dhokra artisans. Generally, these artisans are less skilled and engaged in production of tribal seed holder, spiral and star lockets, Hangers etc.
Despite the skill and knowledge, the artisans faced lots of constraints in selling their produce ensuring fair price. Some of the artisans main source of income is agrilabour and take dhokra as a secondary source of income. 10% of the artisans migrated to Kerala to work as construction workers. HenceMahashakti Foundation with the support of TATA TRUSTS started working very closely with the artisans of Jhigidi and Gatiguda villages of Rayagada District. Now, one more village i.e. Kankerhas been added in the program area. In this cluster both décor items, idols and jewellery are being produced. Constant design development, value addition and marketing supports are being required till the Producer Company reached at break-even point.
