Persistent Vulnerability

This study explores the vulnerability and unsustainable nature inherent in the livelihoods of handicraft artisans situated within the precincts of the Srinagar District, Jammu and Kashmir. Marked by conditions of indigence and exploitative circumstances, these livelihoods constitute formidable impediments to the overall welfare and prosperity of artisans, notably the structural instability in their economic pursuits, which significantly impacts their overall well-being. Using purposive and snowball sampling techniques, a total of 37 participants were engaged in face-to-face interviews. This diverse group included 20 women, 15 men, an industry expert, and an exporter of handicraft items. Employing qualitative methods, the study uncovers the factors driving vulnerability, poverty, and exploitation among artisans. Among other issues, the findings reveal interconnected challenges, including limited market access, poor infrastructure, exploitative intermediaries, and volatile demand for products faced by the artisans. These challenges serve to perpetuate cycles of poverty, with gender norms further exacerbating the hardships experienced by female artisans.