The term “cottage industry” is associated with manufacturing units that make their products mainly by hand. India is often praised and is well known for diverse culture, handicrafts from its traditional cottage industries, variety of food items, etc. The major cottage industries in India are cotton weaving, carpet making, silk weaving, leather industry, metal handicrafts, and small food processing industry.
Cotton weaving: It is a very important cottage business sector in India. The skill dated back to ancient times as cotton clothes are widely worn across the country. Cotton clothes are known for their traditional design, vibrant color and patterns created by skillful weavers with their handlooms. The cotton industry is majorly concentrated in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat.
Silk weaving: It is another famous cottage business in India. Our country is a major producer and exporter of silk to the domestic and global markets. The major silk is Karnataka and holds about 70% of the total silk weaving industries. Mulberry, Tassore, Muga, and Eri are the type of silk produces within our country.
Carpet making: This industry was first introduced in India during the Mughal era. Although the Kashmiri carpet is known for its superior quality and texture, the durries and coir carpet are also famous. The carpet-making industry is divided throughout the country mainly found in Kashmir, Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Punjab. Additionally, the Government of India has set up the Carpet export council for promoting the knotted rugs and various other types of floor coverings from across the country.
Leather works: India is a major supplier of high-quality leather to the global markets and meets around 10% of the global demands. The leather industry over 2.5 million people and is one of the major export earners for India. The regions of India producing leather are Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.
Metal works: Metal has always been used to make figurines, jewelry, utensils, etc. in India. Metal handicrafts from India are appreciated worldwide and are a major contributor to the country’s economy. Making Metal handicrafts do not involve any hi-tech types of equipment, and are produced using tools operated by hand.
