Local artisans selling traditional terracotta items in the State were adversely impacted by the pandemic. They have bounced back with renewed energy, showing resilience.
A few women’s organizations in Fatehpur village, Kujang block, have discovered ways to revive their businesses. It will again enhance their livelihoods by reaching out to more buyers.
In Fatehpur, villagers relied primarily on terracotta crafts made with traditional methods. They lacked quality and finesse. As a result, the products never earned them better market pricing. Women artisans used to travel between villages to sell their crafts and earn a living.
However, since the pandemic, many are unable to work which has affected their livelihood. So they decided to find a way out and formed the ‘Jibanjyoti Terracotta Producer Group’ under the supervision of Fatehpur’s terracotta production facility. It gave their products a unique look.
With this in mind, the women artisans approached the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS). In search of skill development training and suitable market access to sell their crafts gave them hope.
“Our products lacked demand as they didn’t live up to the times,” said Gita Muduli, the group’s supervisor. “Water filters, jugs, plates, pans, pots, lanterns, toys, statues, vases, decorative hangings and bells, murals, Diwali oil lamps, and other household decorations are among the handcrafted eco-friendly terracotta items presently being produced.” These are not only giving women an earning but are now in great demand.
ORMAS Satyasunder Sibram Paital, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, stated that the organization is dedicated to such causes. “In addition to promoting their traditional art and design, we have provided Rs 2.04 lakh in IB/CB and operating costs, as well as Rs 1 lakh in operating capital, in accordance to their market need. Last year, the group’s turnover was a phenomenal Rs 10 lakh.”
