Purchasing traditional Indian handicrafts supports the local community, generates income, and helps preserve a culture. The Kanjeevaram silk sarees and Madhubani paintings are carefully crafted pieces of art, shimmering threads and detailed brushstrokes which hold significant historical value. Smart investors now see these treats as potential impact investments that could also have a positive social impact, in addition to diversifying their portfolio and generating higher returns.
Indian handicrafts tell a tale, revealing the history of their makers. Karnataka’s Bidriware vases and Odisha’s silver filigree wallets represent ancient regional distinctive techniques with their unique silver inlay. While these pieces embody true artistry, they are crafted by hand, unlike most products today, which are mass-produced, making them truly authentic. For younger generations, owning such pieces brings immense pride and provides motivation to champion traditional art forms.
From an economic perspective, it makes sense to buy Indian crafts. The Handicraft and Handloom sector is worth ₹24,300 crores with an annual export revenue of ₹10,000 crores. This sector is forecasted to grow from $4.56 billion in 2024 to $8.2 billion by 2033, which marks an increase of 6.4% yearly. Increasing disposable incomes alongside a shift towards art and collectibles are driving this growth. According to Knight Frank’s Wealth Report, 17% of India’s wealthiest individuals preferred these options in 2023.
As Indian crafts are inherently aligned with the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards, they foster interest from young ethical investors.
Environmental: Most crafts are made by hand or using simple tools, employing natural materials like wood, sun-baked ceramics, or vegetable-dyed textiles. This reduces the carbon footprint, waste, and pollution associated with these goods when compared to mass-produced alternatives.
Social: Women make up 56% of the 7 million-strong workforce in the artisan sector. Purchasing crafts helps sustain incomes and alleviates poverty for artists, many of whom are rural or underserved. Due to the “Vocal For Local” initiative from Prime Minister Modi, as well as websites Suta Bombay and iTokri, craftspeople have gained access to global markets, which greatly increases their visibility as well as earnings.
Governance: Geographical Indications (GI) Labelling not only protects and ensures authentic and counterfeited product-free supply chains for investors but also protects artisans. Channapatna toys and Banarasi silk are two great examples of this in practice.
Purchasing handicrafts helps the Indian data preserve cultural history while simultaneously aiding local businesses. Although many ancient crafts are at risk of becoming obsolete due to competition from industrialised goods, funding from investors helps engage younger generations. With proper backing, crafts have the potential to outdo agriculture in employment generation and, according to official figures, could create in excess of 10% of new jobs, substantially increasing rural non-farm income.
The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is one of the initiatives by the government that helps artisans in accessing new markets and improving their skills. Some works of art have also received international attention. For example, Modi showed Ghana’s leaders silver filigree purses and Bidriware vases in July 2025. These were startup pieces. Now, Zwende and Bare Craft are using AI and e-commerce to link customers with makers at updated traditional busting prices.
The crafts of India also provide patriotic economic altruism. These diversifying assets are becoming increasingly scarce and are sought after, giving the holders of them inflation-resistant qualities akin to gold or real estate. On top of that, they help protect the environment and sustainable income. While supporting eco-friendly wealth generation, modern investors can profitably and meaningfully invest in India through these crafts.
Consider government programs that support artisans, like the PM Vishwakarma Scheme (www.myscheme.gov.in/schemes/pmv), Startup India (www.startupindia.gov.in), and Make in India (www.makeinindia.com). Explore businesses specialising in crafts and contribute to India’s vibrant artisan sector while enjoying both financial and cultural benefits.
Gaurav Bhagat, Founder, Gaurav Bhagat Academy
