Dhubri Artisans Extend Formal Invitation to Prime Minister Modi for Terracotta Hub Visit
In a significant development for the traditional crafts sector, a joint meeting of the Asharikandi Terracotta and Doll Making Samabay Samiti Ltd (ATDMSSLTD) and the North East Craft And Rural Development Organisation (NECARDO) was convened at the community hall in Asharikandi village, Dhubri district, on Wednesday. The primary resolution of this gathering was to formally invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the renowned Asharikandi terracotta cluster of villages.
Historical Context and National Recognition
This invitation follows a notable mention by Prime Minister Modi in one of his "Man Ki Baat" radio programs broadcast by All India Radio in August 2020, where he highlighted the traditional terracotta and doll-making artistry of Asharikandi. Participants at the meeting emphasized that this national acknowledgment has been a catalyst for transformation, with the cluster evolving into a vibrant hub for terracotta products over the past few years.
The meeting also reviewed key milestones that have brought Asharikandi into the limelight. Notably, a tableau featuring Asharikandi terracotta participated in the Republic Day parade in 2026, which significantly increased visibility for the village. This was followed by the awarding of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in March 2024, a crucial step in protecting and promoting the unique craft.
Post-GI Tag Progress and Artisan Engagement
A detailed report presented during the meeting outlined the progress made since the GI tag was conferred. Out of a targeted enrollment of 500 artisans, 335 artisans have already registered to adhere to the codified guidelines of Asharikandi-style terracotta making as specified in the GI tag. This registration ensures the preservation of traditional techniques while maintaining quality standards.
The joint meeting has entrusted Binoy Bhattacharjee, the director of NECARDO, with the responsibility of extending the invitation to Prime Minister Modi, scheduling the visit according to his convenience. This move aims to further boost the profile of the terracotta cluster and support the artisans' livelihoods.
Key Attendees and Future Outlook
The meeting was attended by prominent figures in the craft community, including master craftsman Madhab Paul and NECARDO coordinator Arnab Chakraborty, along with other registered artisans. Their collective efforts underscore a commitment to revitalizing and sustaining this traditional art form.
With the GI tag in place and growing national interest, the Asharikandi terracotta cluster is poised for continued growth, potentially attracting more tourism and economic opportunities. The invitation to Prime Minister Modi represents a strategic step towards securing further governmental support and recognition for this cultural heritage.
