Export value of handicrafts from India FY 2011-2023

India exported handicrafts worth over 135 billion Indian rupees in fiscal year 2023. This was a significant increase compared to previous financial year, where it stood at approximately 155 billion rupees in the country. 

The richness of traditional craftsmanship

Handicrafts have their special place among Indians and those familiar with them outside of India as well. Handmade, eco-friendly, and labor intensive, these include everything from textiles, pottery, jewelry, to woodwork, metal crafts, and more. Arguably, the most widely known worldwide are Pashmina shawls from Kashmir. 

Regional diversity in cultural heritage

Each region in India has its own well-known artistic style – Madhubani from Bihar, Kutch embroidery from Gujarat, Gond from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, and Warli from Maharashtra among others. Handicrafts contribute significantly to India, specifically its rural economy, where most of the labor force for this industry comes from. With the Make in India initiative and National Handicrafts Development Program from the government, artisans across the country are being recognized for their uniqueness and quality of products.