In a significant move to preserve one of Assam’s oldest traditional crafts, the state government has announced plans to revive the defunct Raw Material Bank at Hajo to support the centuries-old bell metal industry. The announcement was made in the Assam Legislative Assembly by Industries, Commerce and Public Enterprises Minister Bimal Bora, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to revitalising the struggling handicraft sector and addressing the challenges faced by local artisans.
The proposed revival of the Raw Material Bank is expected to provide much-needed relief to hundreds of bell metal artisans in Hajo, who have been grappling with rising raw material costs, increasing production expenses, competition from machine-made products, and a shortage of skilled workers. The initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to preserve Assam’s traditional industries while ensuring sustainable livelihoods for artisan communities.
Hajo’s bell metal craft has long been recognised as an important symbol of Assam’s cultural heritage. Known for producing handcrafted utensils, religious artefacts, musical instruments, and decorative items, the industry has supported generations of artisan families. However, changing market conditions and limited institutional support have contributed to its gradual decline over the years.
Government Reaffirms Commitment in Assembly
Replying to a starred question raised during the Assembly session, Industries Minister Bimal Bora said the government is actively reviewing measures to strengthen Hajo’s bell metal industry and ensure its long-term sustainability. He acknowledged that artisans continue to face several economic challenges, particularly the sharp increase in raw material prices and production costs.
Bora informed the House that the Raw Material Bank, which had been established earlier with financial assistance of approximately Rs 75 lakh from both the Central and State governments, gradually became non-functional over time. Recognising its importance for local artisans, the government now intends to revive the facility so that craftsmen can once again access essential raw materials at affordable rates.
According to the minister, ensuring a steady supply of raw materials remains one of the most critical requirements for reviving the traditional craft and improving the financial condition of artisans.
Importance of the Raw Material Bank
The Raw Material Bank was originally established to address one of the biggest challenges faced by bell metal artisans—the irregular availability and rising cost of essential raw materials.
Bell metal products require specialised metal alloys that are often difficult and expensive to procure individually. Without institutional support, artisans frequently have to purchase raw materials from private suppliers at fluctuating market prices, increasing production costs and reducing their profit margins.
The Raw Material Bank was designed to solve this problem by purchasing materials in bulk and making them available to artisans at reasonable prices. When operational, it played an important role in ensuring uninterrupted production and reducing financial pressure on small craftsmen.
Its revival is expected to restore these benefits and help artisans remain competitive in today’s changing marketplace.
Challenges Facing Hajo’s Bell Metal Industry
Hajo’s bell metal industry is one of Assam’s oldest handicraft traditions, with a history spanning several centuries. The craft is renowned for producing traditional utensils, ceremonial items, temple artefacts, cymbals, lamps, and decorative pieces using age-old techniques passed down through generations.
Despite its rich heritage, the industry has witnessed a steady decline in recent years.
One of the primary reasons is the rising cost of raw materials, which has significantly increased production expenses. At the same time, artisans face stiff competition from cheaper machine-made products manufactured on a large scale.
Many young people are also moving away from traditional occupations in search of alternative employment, leading to a shortage of skilled artisans. As experienced craftsmen retire without successors, concerns have grown over the long-term survival of this unique cultural heritage.
Industry representatives have repeatedly urged the government to provide stronger institutional support to help preserve the traditional craft.
Existing Government Support for Artisans
Minister Bimal Bora informed the Assembly that the government has already undertaken several initiatives to assist bell metal artisans in Hajo.
A Common Facility Centre (CFC) has been established to provide shared infrastructure and technical support for craftsmen. A Cluster Management Committee has also been formed to oversee the functioning of the facility and coordinate activities related to artisan development. Financial assistance has additionally been provided under the Micro and Small Enterprises–Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP), implemented jointly by the Central and State governments.
Besides these institutional measures, artisans are benefiting from various flagship government schemes, including the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, the Chief Minister’s Atmanirbhar Assam Abhiyan (CMAAA), and the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP). These schemes provide financial assistance, skill development opportunities, and support for establishing or expanding traditional enterprises.
The government believes that combining financial support with improved infrastructure can strengthen the industry’s long-term viability.
GI Tag Proposal Still Under Consideration
During the Assembly discussion, the issue of obtaining a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Hajo’s bell metal products was also raised.
Responding to the query, Minister Bora explained that a GI application must be submitted by a recognised producers’ association or another legally constituted organisation representing the artisans. The government expressed its willingness to support such efforts, as a GI tag would help protect the authenticity of Hajo’s traditional products while enhancing their recognition in national and international markets.
A successful GI registration could also improve branding, increase market value, and create new opportunities for exports and tourism linked to Assam’s traditional handicrafts.
Design and Training Centre Yet to Receive Funding
While confirming the revival of the Raw Material Bank, the minister clarified that no budgetary allocation has been made during the current financial year for establishing a proposed modern design and training centre in Hajo.
However, he stated that the proposal remains under consideration and may be taken up in the future depending on the availability of financial resources. Such a centre could help artisans adopt modern designs while preserving traditional craftsmanship, enabling them to reach wider domestic and international markets.
Industry experts believe that design innovation, skill development, and digital marketing will play an increasingly important role in ensuring the long-term competitiveness of Assam’s traditional handicraft industries.
Preserving Assam’s Cultural Heritage
The bell metal industry represents far more than an economic activity—it is an integral part of Assam’s cultural identity. Traditional bell metal utensils and ceremonial items continue to play an important role in Assamese households, religious rituals, festivals, and social ceremonies.
Preserving this heritage requires sustained support for the artisan communities that have safeguarded these skills for generations. Government initiatives such as the revival of the Raw Material Bank demonstrate an effort to balance cultural preservation with economic development.
By improving access to affordable raw materials, strengthening institutional support, and encouraging artisan welfare, the government aims to ensure that this centuries-old craft continues to flourish in the years ahead.
Looking Ahead
The Assam government’s decision to revive Hajo’s defunct Raw Material Bank marks an important step towards revitalising one of the state’s most treasured traditional industries. By addressing the critical issue of raw material availability, the initiative is expected to reduce production costs, improve the livelihoods of artisans, and strengthen the future of the bell metal craft.
Along with existing government schemes, infrastructure support, and plans for further institutional development, the revival initiative reflects a broader commitment to preserving Assam’s rich handicraft heritage while creating sustainable economic opportunities for artisan communities. If implemented effectively, the move could breathe new life into Hajo’s historic bell metal industry and ensure that this unique craft continues to remain an enduring symbol of Assam’s cultural legacy.