India: A Net Exporter of Toys

Published: 2nd Jun, 2023

Context

India is going to become a net toy exporter primarily because of rising protectionism and because of growing indigenous capabilities.

About

India has recently turned a net exporter of toys, during 2020-21 and 2021-22, ending decades of import dominance.
More imports than exports: India’s toy industry is minuscule. In 2015-16 (the latest available figures combined for the organized and unorganized sectors), the industry had about 15,000 enterprises or establishments, producing toys valued at ?1,688 crore using fixed capital of ?626 crore at current prices and employing 35,000 workers.
The Asian scene versus India: Historically, Asia’s successful industrializing nations promoted toy exports for job creation, starting with Japan about a century ago, China since the 1980s, and currently Vietnam following in their footsteps.
Export Surplus: India’s export surplus in toys during 2020-21 and 2021-22, is a welcome change. However, it seems to be driven by a rise in protectionism, and the exceptional circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. The turnaround does not seem to be the outcome of strengthening domestic investment and production on a sustained basis.

Some Indigenous toys In India:

Kondapalli toys- They are created in the ‘Bommala Colony’. The deft artisans claim to be descendants of the blessed sage Muktharishi.
Channapatna Toys- The origin of these toys are traced back to the reign of Tipu Sultan, and are manufactured in the Channapatna town of Karnataka, India.
Varanasi is known for lacquered toys and miniature utensils. The sets of birds, animals, orchestras, soldiers and dance ensembles are made in wood, gaily painted and packed in boxes.
Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh are famous for their wooden lacquer ware and wooden toys. Designs are created with the natural veins of the wood.
Chitrakoot in Uttar Pradesh has a distinct place in the country in wood craft. A well mixture of traditional way and modernity done and craftsmen of the districts added new horizons to this art.
Sikki Work: Sikki work is a craft whereby the craftsmen turn unnecessary riverside grass into beautiful decorative objects
Bamboo Work: Bamboo work has been remained a culture of Bihar throughout the ages and time. Right from the pre-historic time forest dwelling tribes are experts in bamboo and cane work.

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