ABSTRACT:
India's handicraft and handloom sector is a vital part of its cultural heritage and a crucial source of livelihood, especially in rural and semi-urban communities where traditional skills are passed down through generations. This labour-intensive industry empowers marginalized populations, particularly women, by fostering self-reliance and income opportunities. Despite its significance, artisans face persistent challenges including volatile raw material prices, outdated techniques, poor infrastructure, and dependence on exploitative intermediaries. This study adopted a qualitative case study methodology to investigate the livelihood impacts of government schemes, specifically those under the Development Commissioner (DC) Handicrafts, on five women handloom weavers in the Niz-Mikirgaon area of Assam. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and thematically analysed to identify recurring patterns in skill development, infrastructural needs, market accessibility, and financial constraints. Findings indicate that DC Handicrafts initiatives, such as Design and Technical Development Workshops and toolkit distribution, have significantly enhanced skills, improved product quality, and facilitated market access for beneficiaries. These interventions have contributed to greater financial stability and self-reliance. However, challenges like high raw material costs, inadequate infrastructure, and limited financial assistance persist, highlighting the need for sustained support and broader outreach of these schemes.