Craft Cluster Initiative
The Craft Cluster Initiative of the Institute is a carefully developed formula for integrating the crafts sector of the country with the mainstream. NIFT, with active support from the Ministry of Rural Development, Office of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts & Handlooms) and National Centre for Jute Development is developing and implementing a craft cluster initiative towards the overall progress of craft, the cottage industry and vocational activities. The intention of the project is to involve NIFT’s professional capabilities in the areas of design, technology, marketing and management along with external expertise, and synergise all developmental activities by various government and non-government agencies.

Role of NIFT

• Overall project direction, strategy, management and coordination of activities and schedules.
• Overall implementation along with specific tie-ups and networking with various stakeholders.
• Expertise of enhancement and conversion of knowledge through multidisciplinary research, across design, management and technology.
• Assessment and enhancement of capacities and capabilities through knowledge transfer programmes.
• Mapping opportunities and potential markets, branding and promotional strategies and networking of potential commerce patronage.
• Products, processes and tools innovation through design and development.
• Technical know-how enhancement, trend studies, quality norms and sourcing.
• Information sharing and creating grass-roots technical support systems for intelligence development and market accessibility.
• Integration of academic activities to provide real life learning opportunities and employ students’ creative abilities towards various initiatives.