Why in the News
- Recently, during the year-ending Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Narasapuram lace as a model of traditional craft revival and women’s empowerment.
- He noted that the State Government of Andhra Pradesh and NABARD are collaborating to provide artisans with design innovation, skill development, and market linkages.
Overview of Narasapuram Lace
- Origin: Narasapuram, located in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, is the historical hub of this traditional craft.
- Historical Background:
- The Narsapuram lace craft originated around 150 years ago, started by women from local farming communities, and has survived major historical challenges including the Indian famine of 1899 and the Great Depression of 1929.
- By the early 20th century, the craft had expanded significantly, with over 2,000 women in the Godavari region actively engaged in lace-making.
- Materials Used:
- Primarily fine cotton threads in various thicknesses and colors.
- Artisans also use silk, rayon, or synthetic threads for decorative purposes, often incorporating beads and sequins to create export-quality products.
- Tools and Techniques:
- The main tool is the crochet hook, available in multiple sizes, enabling the creation of diverse patterns and textures.
- The craft features intricate floral, geometric, and paisley motifs, inspired by natural and traditional designs.
- Products: Narsapuram lace artisans produce a range of items including doilies, pillow covers, cushion covers, bedspreads, table runners, and tablecloths, all reflecting meticulous handwork.
- GI Tag (Geographical Indication): The craft has been awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which protects its authenticity, preserves its regional identity, and enhances the market value for local artisans.
Significance of Narasapuram Lace
- Cultural Preservation: Narasapuram lace sustains the traditional textile heritage of Andhra Pradesh, preserving intricate crochet patterns and craftsmanship passed down through generations. It plays a key role in maintaining regional cultural identity and artistic legacy.
- Economic Empowerment: The craft provides livelihood opportunities to approximately 1 lakh women across 250 villages, enabling them to achieve financial independence and contribute to household income.
- Quality and Recognition: The Geographical Indication (GI) tag ensures authenticity, enhances market value, and boosts global recognition of Narasapuram lace. It protects artisans against imitation and strengthens their competitive position in national and international markets.
- Skill Development and Innovation: Government-led initiatives encourage artisans to adopt contemporary designs and innovative techniques while retaining traditional methods, thereby improving product quality and market appeal.
- Model for Replication: Narasapuram lace serves as a successful model for handicraft promotion, demonstrating effective strategies for women-centric rural employment, skill development, and market linkages that can be replicated in other craft clusters across India.
With reference to Narasapuram lace, consider the following statements:
1. The craft predominantly supports women artisans in rural areas.
2. Government and NABARD initiatives focus on skill training, design innovation, and linking artisans to markets.
3. The craft has little economic significance and is primarily decorative.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All of the above
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: Narasapuram lace is mainly practiced by women artisans in rural areas, providing them with livelihood and economic empowerment.
Statement 2 is correct: The Andhra Pradesh government and NABARD have implemented programs to enhance artisans’ skills, introduce contemporary designs, and connect them to local, national, and international markets.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The craft has significant economic importance, supporting around 1 lakh women across 250 villages, and is not merely decorative.
