Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, has set up the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design (ABCD) to pave the way for a sustainable cultural economy derived from the indigenous crafts of India by empowering the artisan communities with new designs and innovations. This Centre, named as Project Aatman is housed in a colonial barrack from the year 1861 in the Red Fort premises, a site of historical and cultural importance.

What is strikingly outstanding about this Centre is its philosophy to facilitate a self-reliant India, a mission led by the Honourable Prime Minister of India in relation to the economic development of the country. Due to rapid global industrialization and technological advancement, the traditional handicraft sector has suffered a setback in the competing markets of today. To sustain, the crafts need to be moulded in a form that is in-sync with evolved needs and preferences of urban consumers.

Therefore, it has become necessary to facilitate innovation in crafts that will lead to creation of interesting juxtaposition of traditional skills and contemporary taste. This Centre will not only reinvent the craft sector, but will also provide economic stability and livelihood to the people associated with it.

As we celebrate 75 years of India’s Independence, Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design will be a one-of-a-kind platform showcasing a part of our heritage for the citizens of our nation and international visitors to learn from, engage with, and appreciate.

Ms. Supriya Consul

Programme Director (Kala Darsana), Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India

Phone: + 91 011-23446540
Email: supriya[dot]consul[at]gmail[dot]com