Skill Development on Lac Handicrafts

Abstract

Handicrafts of India represent our cultural tradition in true sense, as Indian way of life is replete with products made with the help of simple, indigenous tools by crafts people who belong within a strong fabric of tradition, aesthetic and artistry. India is world leader in lac production, processing and export and to maintain its supremacy in global market, it is not only necessary to maintain its present status but it is also necessary to intensify the uses of lac in diversified field. Lac is widely used in food processing, textile, leather, cosmetics, varnish, and printing industries. Its thermoplastic and thermosetting behavior at fairly low temperature made this resin attractive for hand molding to get desired shape and size. Use of lac in handicraft is well known in making toys, jewelry, bangles, earrings and a range of decorative items. Lac handicraft sector is economically important in terms of low capital investment, high ratio of value addition and high potential for export and foreign exchange earnings for the country. In addition, due to ups and down in lac price, lac producers has to sell their produce, sometimes, at low price. People can start their business in group on small scale because of low capital investment and earn higher prices of their produce. Through this flexibility, the demand and supply can be managed. But available information on lac handicraft is limited and scattered. The present compilation is in that direction with updated information on tools and raw materials used, method of preparation along with list of suppliers for lac handicraft products across the country. It may help for skill development for entrepreneurs, extension functionaries and farmers to undertake preparation of lac handicrafts.