India�s rich cultural diversity and heritage provides a unique and huge resource for developing craft products.
The Indian Handicraft Industry is showing continuous growth rate of 20% every year.
Handicrafts industry is one of the important segment of decentralized sector in India.
Major parts of industry operates in rural and semi urban areas throughout the country and has potential Indian and International market with around 67000 exporters to tap the market.
According to the national census of handicrafts, undertaken by the National Council for Applied Economic Research the value of handicrafts produced last year were of Rs.26,213 Crore.
This Industry provides huge employment opportunities to artisans that include women and people belonging to backward and weaker society. This is one of the major source of income there.
The Indian Handicraft Industry is a $100 billion industry worldwide.
India�s contribution in world market is 1.2%
The total exports of crafts items: - Rs. 13412.92 Crore.
Industry�s share in India's exports:- 1.51 %
Inspite of having diversified products, some part of Indian market are still untapped and market is price sensitive.

Products are high priced in big and metro cities, which are beyond, reach of people belonging middle and lower middle class.
Craft producers have to compete on price, quality and delivery for different segments.
There is poor promotion for craft products in national market.
There is lack of awareness about new traditions and among craftsmen and there is need of technological support and training.

Classification:
Handicrafts industry comprises diversified products portfolio and there is large variety available in market. Handicrafts products can be distinguished into following:
Metal ware, Wood ware, Hand printed textiles, Embroidered and crocheted goods, Shawls, Carpets, Bamboo products, Zari goods, Imitation jewellery, Paintings, Earthenware, Jute products, Marble Sculpture, Bronze Sculpture, Leather Products and other miscellaneous handicrafts.