One District One Product: N.T.R District | APPSC State Specific Preparation Course - APPSC (Andhra Pradesh) PDF Download

Introduction

The One District One Product (ODOP) initiative is a strategic effort to promote balanced regional development in all districts of India. In N.T.R. District, the government has identified Kondapalli Toys as the designated product.

History & Significance

• Kondapalli Toys, also known as Kondapalli Bommalu, represent a distinctive style of Indian wooden toys originating from Kondapalli town in Andhra Pradesh's NTR district. These toys symbolize the area's rich cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship, with origins tracing back to the 16th century. The craft can be linked to the Raju community of Kondapalli, believed to have migrated from Rajasthan centuries ago.
• The creation of Kondapalli Toys involves intricate craftsmanship and patience. Artisans, referred to as "Aryakshatriyas," sculpt softwood into desired shapes. These figures are then coated with a blend of sawdust and tamarind seed paste to achieve a smooth texture. After drying, vibrant colors are applied to depict rural life, cultural traditions, animals, and Hindu deities in Andhra Pradesh.

Kondapalli Toys: A Cultural Heritage

• Kondapalli Toys hold cultural importance in NTR district.
• They are prominently featured in festivals like Bommala Koluvu.
• These toys are integral to regional storytelling traditions.

The History of Kondapalli

• Besides toys, Kondapalli is renowned for its ancient fort.
• The Kondapalli Fort, dating back to the 14th century, overlooks the town.
• Both the toys and fort symbolize the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh.

Characteristics of Kondapalli Toys

• Kondapalli Toys have been granted Geographical Indication status since 2005.
• Known for their light weight, vibrant colors, and traditional production methods.
• Themes revolve around mythology, rural life, and animals.
• Popular designs include the Ambari-Elephant, Palm Tree, Dasavatara, and Village Set.

Celebrations and Artistry

• Dussehra and Sankranthi festivities involve the tradition of Bommala Koluvu.
• People display and collect toys ceremoniously during these celebrations.
• Artisans use various tools like drills, hammers, and chisels for crafting.

Nodal Officer and Responsibilities

• Nodal Officer: District Handlooms and Textiles Officer (Assistant Director)
• Mobile Number: 8008705709
• Development Officer Contact: 9346257399

Main Initiatives

• Offering training programs in Natural Dyes for Kondapally Toys Craft
• Providing financial support through MUDRA loans
• Facilitating marketing opportunities via exhibitions

Activities under ODOP Initiative

• Issuing Pehchan Cards to 239 artisans
• Organizing exhibitions to showcase artisan products

Training Program Details

• Scheme: Welfare Schemes for Artisans
• Period: 02.09.2022 to 01.10.2022 (30 days)
• Location: Kondapally Toys Cooperative Building, Kondapally
• No. of Weavers Trained: 20 (2 batches of 20 each)
• Topic: Natural Dyes in Kondapally Toys Craft

ODOP Sensitization Workshop

Details of workshops conducted for current and future stakeholders. Ongoing training programs:

• Providing awareness and training to stakeholders on the objectives of ODOP
• Continuing education and skill development programs for artisans

Summary of Information

• ODOP catalogues have been created district-wise, featuring ODOP products and photographs, and distributed to all district administration heads with branding under LEPAKSHI.
• Kondapalli artisans participated in HGH India 2022.
• The fair has been promoted among international buyers for B2B interactions.

Lists of Mentors and Cluster Designers

• List of mentors registered with the district to provide mentorship to beneficiaries:
  • Udaya Shesha Rao
  • Udayagiri Surya Prakasha Rao
  • Shaik Khaja
  • Udayagiri Venkata Ramana Prasad
  • K. Naga Brahma Chary
  • D. Raghu Babu
  • Nutakki Srinivasa Rao
• List of Cluster Designers, Assistant Development Officers, Development Officers, CSR Projects & NGOs with their respective designations and contact details.

Sales Data and Support Information

• Consolidated sales data of ODOP products from the district.
• Mentorship support is available with clear procedures for availing the same.
• List of Cluster Development Programs, Training Programs, and other schemes:
  • Credit facilities/schemes with contact details and eligibility criteria.
  • Link to apply for MUDRA scheme through KVIB, Vijayawada, and GM, DIC, Vijayawada for individual craftsmen.
• Details of rules, regulations, acts, and government schemes introduced or amended to drive the ODOP initiative in the district.

Quality Assurance Labs, Certification Labs, Processing Units, and Quality Infrastructure Details

• Lepakshi
  • Location: Vijayawada
  • Contact: ed.aphdc@gmail.com
• Handicrafts (DCH)
  • Location: Vijayawada
  • Contact: hmsecvja-ap@nic.in