Original Article ISSN (Online): 2582-7472 ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing Arts January-June 2024 5(1), 299–314 How to cite this article (APA): Kalshetti, P., Patil, S., and Jadhav, B. (2024). Analysis of Govt Initiatives to Boost Handicraft Industry in India. ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing Arts, 5(1), 299–314. doi: 10.29121/shodhkosh.v5.i1.2024.853 299 ANALYSIS OF GOVT INITIATIVES TO BOOST HANDICRAFT INDUSTRY IN INDIA Dr. Prashant Kalshetti 1 , Dr. Sonali Patil 2 , Bharat Jadhav 3 1 Associate Professor & Head, Department of BBA, Dr. D Y Patil Vidyapeeth, Global Business School and Research Centre, Pune, India 2 Assistant Professor, D Y Patil Institute of Management Studies, Pune, India 3 Assistant Professor, Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, Vidyapeeth Bhavan, Gultekdi, Pune, India ABSTRACT This research delves into the impact and perception of government initiatives within the vibrant tapestry of the handicraft industry. Through a quantitative methodology, this study scrutinizes the perceptions of industry personnel regarding governmental interventions aimed at bolstering the handicraft sector's growth. Utilizing Likert-based questionnaires, data from 263 participants were analyzed, revealing intriguing insights into the perceived efficacy of these initiatives. The findings exhibit a prevailing positive perception among industry stakeholders, indicating a notable impact on various facets of the handicraft ecosystem, from market visibility and economic growth to innovation and artisan empowerment. These results not only underscore the effectiveness of government initiatives but also reveal a robust belief among stakeholders in the earnestness and transparency of these efforts. The implications of these findings extend to fostering greater collaboration between government bodies and industry stakeholders, paving the way for a more resilient and empowered handicraft sector. Received 15 December 2023 Accepted 17 February 2024 Published 04 March 2024 Corresponding Author Dr. Prashant Kalshetti, prashantkalshetti@gmail.com DOI 10.29121/shodhkosh.v5.i1.2024.853 Funding: This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors. Copyright: © 2024 The Author(s). This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. With the license CC-BY, authors retain the copyright, allowing anyone to download, reuse, re-print, modify, distribute, and/or copy their contribution. The work must be properly attributed to its author. Keywords: Government Initiatives, Handicraft Industry, Perception, Impact Assessment, Artisan Empowerment 1. INTRODUCTION India's handicraft industry, a rich tapestry woven with centuries-old traditions and artisanal craftsmanship, stands as a testament to the country's cultural heritage. With a diverse array of traditional crafts, ranging from pottery and weaving to metalwork and embroidery, the industry represents a mosaic of skills passed down through generations. Throughout its history, the handicraft sector has been a significant contributor to India's socio-economic landscape, providing livelihoods to millions in rural and urban areas. Recognizing the immense potential of this industry, various Indian governments have formulated and implemented initiatives