The Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) announced its support for increasing exports from Uttar Pradesh by assisting the Khurja Pottery Manufacturers’ Association in establishing a 3D design studio.
This support comes on the initiative of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and under the bank’s ‘Grassroots Enterprise Development’ programme, which is specifically designed for small enterprises.
Earlier this year, Exim Bank, in collaboration with the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, organised a design development workshop in Khurja for 25 master craftsmen, aiming to enhance their design skills and technologies to make their products globally competitive.
Khurja, known for its tableware, crockery and technical ceramics industry, houses over 300 manufacturing units providing employment to more than 30,000 skilled and new workers.
Design development has long been a significant challenge for Khurja pottery. The lack of skills in design development has hindered even experienced artisans from innovating and adapting their products to market demands. The new 3D design studio aims to address these challenges by providing advanced design tools and expertise, enabling artisans to create new products and improving the industry’s export potential.
The studio will benefit over 250 local pottery units (members of KPMA), providing them with access to cutting-edge technology and expert guidance. The studio will facilitate experimentation with new designs, reduce production costs, and enhance the overall quality of their products.
Training provided at the studio will equip potters with the skills necessary to create more appealing and commercially viable designs. With modern designs in high demand in international markets, Khurja artisans are expected to secure orders from global brands, supported by Exim Bank’s assistance in prestigious art festivals like Kala Ghoda.
Inaugurating the 3D design studio on Tuesday, Exim Bank’s Managing Director Harsha Bangari reaffirmed their commitment to continuously supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Uttar Pradesh.
She highlighted the role of the 3D design studio in modernising the ceramics industry and aiding grassroots enterprises in reaching global markets. In light of the export potential of these industries, Exim Bank recently opened a regional office in Lucknow.
Bangari also mentioned the bank’s support under the Grassroots Enterprise Development programme, including skill development training for Banarasi silk weavers and zari-zardozi artisans, and assistance in participating in major events like the Surajkund International Craft Fair and Kala Ghoda Art Festival.
The event was also attended by KPMA president Ravi Rana, vice-president Darshan Chhatwal, director of Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute (Khurja) Sawan Kumar Sharma, District Industries Centre general manager Ashutosh Singh, and Exim Bank’s deputy managing director Dipali Agarwal.
