states. The main visual arts arose in the context of religious worship. Distinctive regional styles of architecture are seen in different parts of India, reflecting various religions namely Islam, Sikhism, Jainism, Christianity and Hinduism, which typically co-existed across the country. Therefore in different places of worship and mausoleums (burial chambers), palaces, etc.
a great variety of images skilfully carved in stone, or cast in bronze or silver, or modeled in terra-cotta or wood or colourfully painted were commonly prevalent, most of which have been preserved in India’s vast heritage. In the modern scenario, these arts are preserved and promoted through the efforts of government and several non-governmental organisations, providing occupational avenues including entrepreneurship. Warli Painting of Maharashtra Puppetry Craft Despite the rich heritage of traditional occupations, in the modern context, these works of art are gradually losing out to mass–produced goods, leaving the artisans with meager sources of income on the one hand and a gradual erosion of the aesthetic appreciation of fine arts on the other. Illiteracy, general socio-economic backwardness, slow progress in implementing land reforms and inadequate or inefficient finance and marketing services are major constraints that cause this trend.
Shrinkage of forests, depletion of resource base and general environmental degradation are responsible for various problems faced in this context. Coconut craft of Kerala Bamboo craft of Assam These are tremendous challenges and indicate an urgent need for the revival and sustaining of the indigenous knowledge, know-how and skills which are fast losing ground. Some of the areas where interventions are required are design innovations, preservation and refinement strategies, use of eco-friendly raw materials, packaging, establishment of training facilities, conservation of traditional knowledge and protection of intellectual property rights (IPR). It is important for the modern youth and communities to be aware of the tremendous scope and potential for career avenues for individuals.
In addition, such efforts and initiatives will go a long way to enhance the income generation potential of the rural folk. It is worthy to note that the Government of India is making concerted efforts in this direction. The need of the hour and