IIT Kanpur has launched KALA GRAM, a Design Development Centre at the Ranjit Singh Rozi Shiksha Kendra (RSK), aimed at preserving and revitalizing traditional crafts through innovation. The launch event featured key figures such as Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, who emphasized the importance of empowering rural artisans. Other dignitaries, such as Prof. Amey Karkare, Dean of Resources and Alumni; Prof. Satyaki Roy, Department of Design; Prof. Sudhanshu S Singh, Co-PI’s of the Design Project; Prof. Amarendra K. Singh, PIC Technopark@IITK; and Prof. Kallol Mandal, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, were among others.

Prof. Sandeep Sangal, Principal Investigator of the RSK project, highlighted the initiative’s dual goals of providing free education and skill training to rural youth. Dr. Monika Thakur, coordinator of KALA GRAM, emphasized that the Centre will provide artisans with a space to experiment with new tools, techniques, and market trends, along with training in packaging strategies to boost product appeal. Rita Singh, Project Executive Officer of RSK, said that their goal is to revitalize these crafts by introducing new design developments, tackling the challenges artisans face, and adding fresh appeal to their products.

The Centre will focus on rejuvenating crafts like Bithoor pottery, Kalpi handmade paper, and Kanpur home furnishings through innovative design developments. This initiative, backed by CSR funds from Philip Morris International’s India affiliate, IPM India Wholesale Trading Private Limited, has made a significant and positive impact on women’s empowerment. Madam Anushree Lakshminarayanan, Director of External Affairs at IPM India, praised the project for its inspiring efforts in uplifting and empowering local artisans.