Archive · 7 Sep 2026
Odisha Modernises Traditional Crafts With Advanced Artisan Tool Kits
Odisha is giving new tools to people who make traditional handicrafts.
The first kits went to 150 appliqué artisans in Khordha district.
Appliqué, also called Chandua work, is a famous Odisha craft.
The larger programme will give 1,200 kits to artisans in seven types of crafts.
The kits are meant to help artisans work faster and make better products.
They may also help artisans sell more goods and earn more money.
UTKALIKA is organising the programme and supporting artisans with materials and markets.
More kits will be distributed in stages during the current financial year.
Odisha distributed advanced tool kits to 150 appliqué artisans in Khordha district.
The initiative plans to provide 1,200 kits across seven handicraft sectors and 12 districts.
Covered crafts include appliqué, wood, stone, horn, iron, terracotta and brass metalwork.
UTKALIKA is implementing the programme with market, raw-material and supply-linkage support.
Officials say the tools will improve productivity, precision, product quality and artisans’ earning opportunities.
- Who
- Odisha’s handicraft authorities, UTKALIKA and 150 appliqué artisans, with senior officials attending.
- What
- The state distributed advanced tool kits as part of a programme for 1,200 artisans.
- When
- The first distribution took place on Monday; the wider programme covers 2024-25 and 2025-26.
- Where
- Bhakarsahi under Banamalipur in Khordha district, Odisha; the wider programme covers 12 districts.
- Why
- To modernise handicraft production, improve quality and productivity, expand markets, and strengthen artisans’ incomes.
- Initial beneficiaries
- 150 appliqué artisans
- Total tool kits
- 1,200
- Handicraft sectors
- Seven
- Districts covered
- 12
- Programme period
- 2024-25 and 2025-26
- Implementing agency
- Odisha State Cooperative Handicrafts Corporation Ltd, known as UTKALIKA
- Appliqué status
- A signature Odisha handicraft with Geographical Indication recognition