Main Article Content
Abstract
The vital important factor for economic development of a country is its industrialization. In the process of industrialization, emphasis is given to the three major groups of industries; large-scale industries, small-scale industries and cottage industries. Cottage and small-scale industrial sector plays a dominant role in the economic development of both developed and developing countries. In economic development aspects cottage industries play an important role in context of employment opportunities, equitable distribution of national income, balanced regional growth and development of rural areas. Besides economic aspects, the social role of cottage industrial units are quite significant in achieving various social goals such as removal of poverty, attainment of self- reliance, reduction in disparities in income, standard of living and regional imbalances. Unfortunately, the cottage industry is today under threat of extinction or steep decline because of the competition from the cheaper machine goods and import from other countries. It leads to impact on the lives of many artisans who are switching their professions for survival. Capital, raw materials, technical knowledge and entrepreneurial sprite, which are back bone of successful industrialization, are not available in the rural areas of Tamil Nadu. At this juncture, the present study deals how artisans manage their problem and any support received by the government, NGOs and SHGs. The study is also examining the status of the rural artisans.