A Study of the Socio-Economic Conditions of the Handloom Weavers of Kota and Bundi District in Rajasthan

Abstract

Handloom industry is one of the largest cottage industries in India. Being labour intensive, it is the second largest employment generator after agriculture in the rural sectors of the economy. India contributes 95% to the total world exports of handloom products, enjoying an almost monopoly. Spread across the country, the industry is known for its delicate, diverse, and fine craftsmanship. Out of the 344 GI tags held by India, 202 are of the handloom and handicraft products. However, the handloom industry’s present status in India is disturbing, particularly in the socio-economic conditions of the weavers. The present study enquires into the socio-economic conditions and the well-being of the handloom weavers in India with the help of the sample collected from three villages of Kota and Bundidistricts in Rajasthan for the Kota Doriahandloom product. The study reveals that the weaver households in the survey regions had low standards and quality of living. The handloom weavers of Kota Doriawere found to have extremely poor socio-economic conditions and various government schemes have failed to uplift the weavers’ income levels.

Keywords: Amenity Index, Bundi, Kota, handloom industry, Household Quality, India, socio-economic conditions, Standard of Living, weavers