Kachchh’s Kumbhar potters struggle to earn sustainable incomes and lift their families from low standards of living.  Though they wish that their children will carry forward the craft, they recognize that the young generation is disengaged.  Kumbhar youth are looking elsewhere for what they consider to be more profitable and respected careers.  Many have already left the craft to join the construction industry.

Environmental Challenges

Artisans are also challenged by Kachchh’s changing ecology and environmental policies.  Pottery has traditionally been a locally and environmentally sustainable craft; the sources of all the natural resources needed to turn earth into pottery are local.  Local clay, local white clay, water, thorns and tender stems from the Prosophis Julifera plant, jaru leaves, and black stone have not only been found in potters’ villages for centuries but are also free of cost.

Today Kachchh’s changing ecology and environmental policies are inhibiting artisans’ access to these resources.  As Kachchh develops, industries and residences are being built on sources of quality clay.  Water scarcity poses a significant challenge as artisans are forced to buy water not only for their household use, but also for their craft.  Kachchh’s charcoal industry is destroying populations of Prosophis Julifera plants and other needed vegetation.  As local resources are depleted, artisans must travel great distances to access the materials which were once apart of the local landscape.

Market-related Challenges

The local market for pottery and earthenware has changed dramatically in the last few decades.  Plastic and metal continue to replace handcrafted pottery.  As the local market decreases, potters are increasingly dependant on traders who hold the power to determine costing and production.  Artisans must look to new markets and develop new products and designs to competitively meet these market’s demands.  Potters also struggle with a lack of infrastructure needed to bring their goods to market.  Work shops are inadequate and transportation is inefficient resulting in unnecessary breakages and waste.

Strategy

KHAMIR Craft Resource Centre works with Kachchh potters to address the challenges facing the pottery sector.  Its efforts include assessing environmental concerns, exploring ways to engage Kumbhar youth in their traditional craft, improving baking technologies, and working to ensure product quality and innovative designs.

For more information about Kachchh craft traditions,livelihoods,challenges and opportunities, visit our Creative Industries pages or hear craft stories from local artisans.