Rural Pottery Industry in Sivasagar District of Assam

Abstract

Pottery is one of the oldest crafts carried on by the most antiquated method of production in the rural areas in Assam. Pottery has been playing an essential role in the society and economy of Assam. The rural pottery industry not only provides income opportunity but also carries cultural and social significance. The significant aspects of the traditional industry are that it is largely environment friendly and an important tool for the empowerment of potters in the state. The very nature of the pottery industry bears inherent problems on its growth and development for several decade in Assam. Though the industry has been playing a very important role in the economy of Assam, it is cannot considered a sunrise industry in Assam. The right kind of investment in the pottery industry can turn it into a gainful primary and secondary occupation in the rural economy of Assam. The paper highlights the different aspects of rural pottery industry in the Sivasagar district of Assam.