Bhadohi (Sant Ravidas Nagar) is well-known for wrong as well as for good reasons. The good thing about this industry is that it provides sustenance to the weaker section of society. Perhaps it, economically, is among the best-off states in Uttar Pradesh. Of the INR 3600 crores Indian handmade carpet industry, Bhadohi’s share is more than 50 per cent (estimate). It, being a cottage industry, is spread all sides of Bhadohi deep into the hinterland covering more than ten thousand Sq Kilometers.
Now the despicable: Thanks to the crusade of Kailash Satyarthi the presence of large scale child/bonded labor surfaced in late ‘80s. Of course it was/is abhorrent but, on the other hand, it provided an opportunity to NGOs (Non Governmental Organization) and other welfare entities to focus on this nastiness. To day there are many NGOs who are dedicated for their welfare. Prominent among them are CEPC, Rug Mark and Care & Fair.
It is not limited to NGOs only. Many Carpet Importers put pressure on carper exporters sticking to the social accountability norms. Among them IKEA of Sweden is the leader. Resultant many importers either have already got registered with SA and ISO or have applied for registration. But, to my best knowledge, most of them are only following a process to keep the records in order that would help keep them in the good books of buyers. A passion for doing some common good is missing. Otherwise, I believe, these kinds of good deeds seldom go unnoticed.
The need of the time is that established carpet dealers turn their entities into a Social Entrepreneurship and pursue the goals oriented towards social good.
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