Name: Hemal .A.

Shah

Class: 11th commerce

Roll No.: 12

Subject: Business studies

Topic: visit to a handicraft unit

 Index
1. Introduction to handicraft
2. History of handicrafts
3. Sasha
4. Strategic initiatives to empower artisan communities
5. Sasha Association for Craft Producers (SACP)
6. Sarba Shanti Ayog (SSA)
7. Sasha Textile Artisans Association (STAA)
8. Ruro Agro Services Association (RASA)
9. Vision & Mission
10. Stakeholders
11. Raw material
12. Processes
13. The market, the buyers, the middleman, and the areas covered
14. Working condition
15. Modernization
16. Facilities
17. Security
18. Training
19. Subsidies availed
 Introduction to handicraft
Handicraft is the type of craft where people make
things using only their hands or basic tools. The
items are usually decorative and have a particular
use, generally the term refers to traditional
methods of making things. Also handicraft things
are different from “art and craft” because they
are meant to be used for something. Handicrafts
items are generally contrasted with mass
production. It stimulate a person’s creativity
through art. It play a major role in contributing to
India’s exports, it is a form of employment for a
considerable portion of India’s population.
 History of handicrafts
Handicrafts have a rich and diverse history that
spans thousands of years, reflecting the creativity,
cultural identity, and craftsmanship of various
societies across the globe. Here's a brief overview
of the history of handicrafts:
1. Ancient Times (Prehistoric to 500 CE):
Handicrafts can be traced back to prehistoric times when
early humans used materials like wood, stone, bone, and clay
to create tools, pottery, and decorative items. As civilizations
developed, so did the sophistication and variety of
handicrafts.
2. Ancient Civilizations (500 BCE - 500 CE):
In ancient civilizations like those of Mesopotamia, Egypt,
Greece, and Rome, handicrafts flourished. Artisans crafted
items such as jewelry, textiles, pottery, metalwork, and
sculptures using advanced techniques and designs.

3. Medieval Period (500 - 1500 CE):

During the medieval period, craftsmanship continued to
evolve and was heavily influenced by religious institutions
and monarchies. Guilds were established to regulate and
uphold the quality of handicrafts, ensuring skilled artisans
could pass on their knowledge to the next generation.
4. Renaissance and the Age of
Enlightenment (14th - 18th centuries):
The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in the arts and
crafts, leading to a surge in creativity and craftsmanship. This
period witnessed the rise of master artisans and the
establishment of workshops that produced high-quality and
intricate handicrafts.
5. Industrial Revolution (late 18th - early
19th centuries):
The Industrial Revolution introduced mass production and
mechanization, greatly impacting traditional handicrafts.
Factories and machines replaced many skilled artisans,
leading to a decline in traditional craftsmanship in some
regions.
6. Arts and Crafts Movement (late 19th -
early 20th centuries):
In response to the negative effects of industrialization on
craftsmanship, the Arts and Crafts Movement emerged,
promoting the value of handmade goods and craftsmanship.
It emphasized the importance of traditional techniques and
aesthetics.
7. Modern Era (20th century - present):
Despite the rise of mass production, the value and
appreciation for handicrafts have persisted. In the 20th and
21st centuries, there has been a resurgence of interest in
handicrafts, driven by a desire for unique, handmade, and
sustainable products. Artisans and craftspeople continue to
produce a wide range of items, including textiles, pottery,
jewelry, woodworking, and more.
Throughout history, handicrafts have reflected the cultural,
social, and economic contexts of the societies in which they
were created. Today, they remain an important part of global
culture, showcasing creativity, tradition, and craftsmanship.
 Sasha
The Sasha business model is built on the principles of
equity, transparency, social justice and environmental
concern.
In 1978, craft in India was going through an especially
low period due to the influx of cheaper and sometimes
better, machine-made goods. Craftspeople were
increasingly being marginalized and their products
trivialized as 'ethnic' and purely decorative.

Artisans - especially women - were exploited by

middlemen, and the craft they practiced was fast losing
its identity to cater to market demands. Customers had
no idea about what they were buying and artisans had
no idea who was buying their products.
Strategic initiatives to empower artisan
communities

Sasha is a vibrant, decentralized network of

organizations, built on complementary competencies.
The collective mission of the entire network is to
strengthen, support, and expand market opportunities
for artisans.

Sasha works with nearly 100 groups of disadvantaged

women and marginalized producers & artisans from
rural and semi-urban pockets of North-East India, West
Bengal, Orissa, Bihar and some other states.
 Sasha Association for Craft Producers (SACP)

SACP (also called Sasha) is a not-for-profit craft development

& marketing organization working with marginalized artisan
and women producers.
The marketing team works closely with Producer partners.
Together, they translate market trends into designs suitable
for a variety of clientele. As a result, Producers now access
both international and high-end domestic markets.
Sasha is committed to expanding the reach of Fair Trade in
India's growing domestic market. Retail outlets in Kolkata
and Delhi are a destination for discerning customers. They
cater to people looking for authentic handmade products
that are rich in culture and creativity. Sasha also organizes
regular exhibitions and events in both cities.
 Sarba Shanti Ayog (SSA)
Sarba Shanti Ayog (SSA) focuses on capacity building,
technical assistance, design and product development along
with the social developmental needs of the Producer groups
and Fair Trade organization. Producer partners are well
represented on the managing committee.
By nurturing innovation, Sasha helps Producers adapt their
products to contemporary demands. Amplifying Producer
capabilities and competitiveness improves their profitability
and sustainability.
Interventions at various levels, help grassroots Producers to
meet the stringent standards and norms of international trade
(quality, safety, environment, child labour and gender equity).
 Sasha Textile Artisans Association (STAA)
STAA was formed in 1983 as a textile producer
collective, covering various textiles and garment
groups. This involves addressing the different stages of
the value chain - weaving, dyeing and printing,
stitching and embroidery, tailoring and finishing.
 Ruro Agro Services Association (RASA)
Ruro Agro Services Association (RASA) is a not-for-profit, Fair
Trade organization that trains women to make gourmet
spices and hair and body care products from pure, organic,
natural materials.

Women from underprivileged communities are equipped

with technical and managerial skills to set up and run
efficient production units for agro-based products. Staff are
taught the skills required for preparation, production, and
packaging of the products and each unit is furnished with
basic processing and testing facilities.

RASA was established by Sasha in 1991 as a predominantly

non-craft enterprise focused on the wellness and food
market segments.
 Vision & Mission
Vision
To create prosperity through empowering and
providing livelihood opportunities for craft groups and
marginalized communities residing in India and
promote fair trade as a way of life.

Mission
1. To provide sustainable livelihoods to the
marginalized communities by leveraging the fair trade
principles and practices.
2. To empower artisans by building and improving
upon their relevant capacities and facilitating their
access to services like marketing, finance, insurance,
education etc.
3. To catalyze viability and vibrancy in the craft sector -
- economically, socially, environmentally and culturally.
4. To commit to the Fair Trade principles and practices,
uphold its spirit and maintain a leading position in
terms of contributing to the fair trade movement in
India and the world.
 Stakeholders
Artisans and Craft Producers:
The primary stakeholders are likely to be the artisans and
craft producers themselves. They are directly involved in the
creation and production of crafts and are often the focus of
the association's efforts.

Consumers:
Consumers who purchase or appreciate handmade crafts
produced by Sasha artisans are important stakeholders. Their
demand for these crafts can significantly impact the success
and sustainability of the association.

Sasha Association Leadership and Staff:

The leadership, employees, and volunteers of Sasha
Association are stakeholders as they are responsible for
managing and directing the organization's operations,
programs, and initiatives.

Investors or Funders:
Individuals, organizations, or entities providing financial
support, grants, or investments to Sasha Association are
stakeholders as they have a vested interest in the
organization's success and impact.
Government and Regulatory Bodies:
Local, regional, or national government bodies and
regulatory agencies may also be stakeholders as they may
oversee or regulate aspects of the association's operations.

NGOs and Supportive Organizations:

Other non-governmental organizations, community groups,
or support organizations with similar objectives may have an
interest in Sasha Association's work and could be
stakeholders.

Suppliers and Partners:

Suppliers of materials or services to the association, as well
as collaborative partners, are also stakeholders
 Raw material
Sasha Association for Crafts Producers use a variety of
raw materials based on the types of crafts they
produce and the regions they operate in.
Textiles and Fibres:
Cotton, silk, wool, linen, jute, hemp, and other natural fibres
for weaving and textile-based crafts.

Metals:
Copper, brass, silver, gold, and other metals for jewelry
making and metal crafts.
Wood:
Various types of wood like oak, teak, pine, and bamboo for
wood carving, furniture, and other wooden crafts.
Clay and Ceramics:
Clay for pottery and ceramics, used for creating bowls, vases,
figurines, and other clay-based crafts.

Leather:
Animal hides and skins for leather crafts, including bags,
shoes, belts, and accessories.
Gemstones and Beads:
Various gemstones, beads, and semi-precious stones used in
jewellery making and embellishing crafts.

Paper:
Different types of paper like handmade paper, recycled
paper, and specialty papers used in paper crafts, cards, and
decorations.
Natural Dyes and Pigments:
Plant-based or natural dyes and pigments used for colouring
textiles and other crafts.

Glass:
Glass for glassblowing, stained glass, and glass bead making,
among other crafts.
Plants and Natural Materials:
Leaves, twigs, grasses, and other natural materials used in
basket weaving, floral arrangements, and similar crafts.
 Processes
The process used to produce the product
of Sasha association for craft producer…
Design and Planning:
Artisans or designers create designs for the intended
craft items, considering aesthetics, functionality, and
cultural aspects.

Raw Material Preparation:

Raw materials, such as textiles, metals, wood, clay, or
leather, are sourced, sorted, and prepared for crafting.

Crafting or Artisanal Work:

Skilled artisans utilize traditional or contemporary
techniques to craft the products, including weaving,
carving, painting, stitching, or other specialized
methods.

Assembly and Construction:

Depending on the craft, the assembled components
are put together to create the final product, such as
sewing pieces of fabric, attaching handles, or joining
parts.

Decoration and Embellishment:

Crafts may undergo additional steps for decoration,
embellishment, or surface treatments, which could
include painting, embroidering, beadwork, or other
artistic enhancements.

Quality Control:
Products are inspected to ensure they meet quality
standards in terms of design, durability, aesthetics, and
other specified criteria.

Packaging:
Finished products are packaged appropriately,
considering factors such as size, fragility, and materials
used, to ensure safe transportation and display.

Distribution and Marketing:

Crafts are distributed to various markets, retailers,
exhibitions, or directly to customers, often with the
assistance of marketing efforts to promote sales.

Sales and Customer Service:

Crafts are sold to customers, and after-sales services, if
applicable, are provided to address any concerns or
issues.

Sustainability and Ethical Practices:

Many associations, including those involved in crafts,
emphasize sustainable and ethical production
practices, considering environmental impact, fair trade,
and supporting artisans' well-being.
 The market, the buyers, the
middleman, and the areas covered
The exact market, buyers, middlemen, and
areas covered by Sasha Association for Craft
Producers.

Market and Buyers:

Craft associations like Sasha often target a
diverse market that appreciates handmade,
unique, and ethically produced craft items.
This can include local markets, national
markets, and international markets.
Buyers may include individual consumers,
retail stores, e-commerce platforms, galleries,
museums, and even corporate buyers looking
for distinctive gifts or promotional items.

Middlemen and Distributors:

Craft associations may collaborate with middlemen or
distributors to reach a wider audience. These could be
wholesalers, retailers, export agents, or importers who help
distribute and sell the crafts to various markets.
Middlemen play a crucial role in connecting the artisans with
a broader customer base and managing logistics, marketing,
and sales.

Areas Covered:
Sasha Association for Craft Producers may cover various
areas based on their reach and target markets. This can
include:
Local and Regional Markets: Selling crafts at local markets,
craft fairs, exhibitions, and stores within the region where
the association is based.
National and International Markets: Expanding their reach
beyond local areas to markets across their country and
globally through e-commerce platforms, international trade
shows, and partnerships with international retailers.
Tourism and Cultural Centres: Collaborating with tourist
destinations, cultural centres, and museums to sell crafts to
tourists and visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences.
Specialized Events: Participating in specialized events related
to crafts, fair trade, sustainability, or artisanal products to
showcase their crafts and connect with potential buyers.
 Working condition

Fair Wages and Compensation:

Ethical craft associations prioritize paying artisans fair wages
that reflect the skill, effort, and time invested in crafting
products.

Safe and Healthy Work Environment:

Organizations aim to provide a safe, clean, and healthy
working environment for artisans, ensuring their well-being
and compliance with safety regulations.

Respect for Workers' Rights:

Respecting workers' rights, including the right to fair
treatment, non-discrimination, and freedom of association, is
a fundamental principle for ethical organizations.

No Child Labour or Forced Labour:

Ethical associations strictly prohibit child labour and forced
labour, adhering to international labour standards.

Reasonable Working Hours:

Organizations aim to maintain reasonable working hours to
prevent overwork and ensure a good work-life balance for
artisans.

Training and Skill Development:

Providing opportunities for training, skill development, and
capacity building to enhance the artisans' capabilities and
improve their craft.

Environmental Sustainability:
Promoting sustainable practices and minimizing the
environmental impact of production, such as responsible use
of materials and waste reduction.

Gender Equality and Inclusivity:

Encouraging gender equality and inclusivity in the workplace,
offering equal opportunities and fair treatment to all
artisans.

Transparency and Accountability:

Being transparent about the organization's policies, practices,
and working conditions, and being accountable for their
actions.
 Modernization

Technology Integration:
Implementing digital tools and platforms for inventory
management, sales, e-commerce, and customer relationship
management to streamline operations and reach a broader
audience.

E-commerce and Online Presence:

Establishing a robust online presence through an optimized
website, online store, and engaging social media platforms to
facilitate direct sales and global reach.

Digital Marketing:
Leveraging digital marketing strategies such as social media
advertising, email marketing, and search engine optimization to
enhance brand visibility and attract a larger customer base.

Sustainable Practices:
Focusing on sustainability by using eco-friendly materials, reducing
waste, adopting energy-efficient practices, and promoting fair trade
and ethical production.

Artisan Training and Skill Enhancement:

Investing in training programs and workshops to enhance artisan
skills, introducing new techniques, and encouraging creativity and
innovation in craft production.

Market Research and Trend Analysis:

Conducting thorough market research to identify emerging trends,
consumer preferences, and market demands, enabling the creation
of products that align with contemporary tastes.

Collaborations and Partnerships:

Forming collaborations with designers, retailers, or other
organizations to co-create unique products, expand market reach,
and offer innovative designs to customers.

Streamlined Supply Chain Management:

Implementing efficient supply chain processes to reduce lead times,
improve cost-effectiveness, and ensure timely delivery of products
to buyers.

Customer Feedback and Engagement:

Actively seeking feedback from customers, incorporating their
suggestions, and engaging with them through newsletters, surveys,
or feedback forms to build a loyal customer base.

Adoption of Innovation:
Encouraging innovation within the organization, whether in product
design, production processes, or business strategies, to stay ahead
in a competitive market.
 Facilities:

Workspace
Craft associations often provide a dedicated workspace
or studio where artisans can create their crafts. These
spaces are designed to be safe, well-lit, and equipped
with the necessary tools and materials.
Training Centres
Some associations have training centres where artisans
can learn new skills, techniques, and design principles
to enhance their craft.
Storage and Inventory Management
Facilities for storing raw materials, finished products,
and inventory are crucial to ensure efficient production
and order fulfilment.
Showrooms and Retail Spaces
Craft associations may have showrooms or retail
spaces where they display and sell their products to
customers.
 Security

Physical Security
Ensuring the safety of workers and their belongings is
essential. This may include measures such as secure
entry points, surveillance, and security personnel.
Health and Safety
Craft associations prioritize the health and safety of
their staff and workers. This involves providing safety
equipment, first-aid kits, and conducting regular safety
inspections.
Data Security
Protecting sensitive information, including customer
data and financial records, is crucial. Organizations
implement data security measures to prevent data
breaches.
Intellectual Property Protection
Craft associations may take steps to protect the
intellectual property of artisans and their designs to
prevent unauthorized reproduction.
 Training

Craft Skills Training

Craft associations often offer training programs to artisans to
enhance their skills, learn new techniques, and improve the
quality of their crafts.
Business and Marketing Training
Training programs may cover business skills, marketing,
pricing strategies, and financial management to help artisans
manage their businesses effectively.
Fair Trade and Ethical Practices
Artisans are educated about fair trade principles, ethical
production practices, and sustainability to ensure responsible
and socially conscious craft production.
Safety Training
Training in workplace safety and health practices to prevent
accidents and promote well-being.
Product Development
Artisans may receive training in product development and
design to create marketable and innovative crafts.
Customer Service
Training in customer service and engagement to build strong
relationships with buyers and customers.
 Subsidies availed
Government Grants and Subsidies:
Artisanal and craft-focused associations may apply for grants
or subsidies provided by governmental bodies that support
the growth of the crafts sector, especially in terms of skill
development, market access, or sustainable practices.

Trade and Export Promotion Subsidies:

Craft associations involved in exporting crafts may seek
subsidies or incentives aimed at promoting exports,
facilitating participation in international trade fairs, or
supporting export-related activities.

Sustainable Practices and Environmental Subsidies:

Organizations focusing on sustainable craft production may
seek subsidies or incentives that encourage environmentally
friendly practices, recycling, waste reduction, or the use of
eco-friendly materials.

Skill Development and Training Subsidies:

Associations may apply for subsidies that support skill
development programs, training workshops, and educational
initiatives to enhance the capabilities of artisans and
workers.
Rural Development and Artisan Empowerment
Subsidies:
Organizations working in rural or underprivileged areas may
seek subsidies aimed at rural development, job creation, and
empowering artisans and craftsmen in economically weaker
sections.

Women's Empowerment and Gender Equality

Subsidies:
Associations focusing on empowering women artisans may
apply for subsidies targeted at women's economic and social
development, promoting gender equality and opportunities
in the crafts sector.

Cultural Preservation and Heritage Subsidies:

Organizations involved in preserving and promoting cultural
heritage through crafts may seek subsidies supporting
initiatives that safeguard traditional crafts and cultural
practices.