There are over 14 different types
of embroideries in Kutch. Many resource
centers which supply raw materials,
designs, training and quality control
are being run by various NGOs. These
centers also buy back the finished
goods and help in marketing. It
is estimated that these NGOs cover
6000-7000 artisans totally. The
total number of commercial embroidery
artisans in Kutch are over 15,000.
This leaves a large number of artisans
who are not covered by any support
services. These artisans produce
low quality merchandise and are
very poorly paid. A center which
provides support services like design
and training for these artisans
is required. Many of these artisans
market through fairs organized by
the Government or supply to wholesalers
and retailers. A massive training
program for skill upgradation of
these artisans is needed so that
they produce better quality goods.
They also need new designs and color
matching which are more suitable
for modern markets.
Embroidery like bandhani is very
fragmented industry with large number
of artisans. Due to the tradition
of the Khatries, the Bandhani industry
is relatively organized. Since traditionally
embroidery was a folk craft for
domestic use only, no similar structure
exists. The local entrepreneurs
who do this trade are very small
and have very little exposure to
the market. Thus it is important
that more and more embroidery artisans
are tied up with support service
umbrellas.