July 16, 2025
RANCHI – In the remote village of Andharjhor in Jharkhand’s East Singhbhum district, generations of artisans have sustained the legacy of making traditional Indian percussion instruments—tabla, mandar, dhol, and mridang. But today, that legacy is at risk.
Around 70 families in this tribal village continue to practice the age-old craft, but are battling modern-day market realities. The artisans say the time and cost involved in making these instruments often go unrewarded, with low market prices and limited access to buyers. As a result, many youth from the community are losing interest in the tradition, turning instead to alternatives, more stable livelihoods.
Recognising the risk of this cultural heritage fading, Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi visited Andharjhor. He engaged directly with the artisans, enquiring about production costs, raw materials, market linkages, and income levels. The artisans shared that while earlier administrative efforts had brought some benefits, more consistent support was needed to make the craft economically viable.
In response, the Deputy Commissioner assured comprehensive administrative assistance. Plans were laid out to improve marketing access, branding, and even registering trademarks for the locally made instruments. Officials from the industry department were instructed to take necessary steps in that direction.
A key proposal discussed was the setting up of a Common Facility Centre (CFC) near the main road connecting Bodam to Andharjhor. This facility would help link buyers directly with artisans and offer a central point for showcasing their work. Instructions were given to the local BDO and CO to identify government land for this purpose and send the proposal soon.
Later, the Deputy Commissioner also inspected the Vishwakarma Point near Sanjay Market in Sakchi, where artisans have been allotted space. He ordered that the current sheds be made permanent and directed that artisans from Andharjhor be enrolled under the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana to avail of financial and training support.
To broaden livelihood options, especially for women, the administration also plans to link them with self-help groups and skill training through JSLPS and RSETI schemes, potentially enabling self-employment through other micro-enterprises.
While challenges remain, the visit signals a renewed administrative commitment to preserving Andharjhor’s heritage and securing a sustainable future for its artisans.