The Goa government will expedite the establishment of a Mati Kala Board aimed at protecting and supporting traditional clay idol-making artisans across the state. Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant gave the assurance in the Goa Legislative Assembly, responding to concerns over the declining traditional craft.
Government Moves to Protect Traditional Clay Art
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant assured the House that the government would expedite the process of establishing a Mati Kala Board to safeguard the interests of traditional clay artisans involved in idol making.
The assurance came in response to Mayem MLA Premendra Shet, who raised concerns about the challenges faced by families engaged in traditional clay idol making. Shet, who himself comes from a family of clay idol makers, highlighted the need for greater government support to preserve the craft.
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Focus on Traditional Artisans and Eco-Friendly Idols
According to the concerns raised in the Assembly, traditional clay idol makers are facing difficulties that are threatening the continuation of their age-old craft. The growing availability of Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols from other states, particularly during Ganesh Chaturthi, has also affected local artisans and their market.
The issue is not limited to livelihoods. The use of PoP idols has also raised environmental concerns, making the promotion of traditional clay idols important from both cultural and ecological perspectives.
The proposed Mati Kala Board is expected to provide an institutional platform for supporting artisans, promoting traditional clay craftsmanship and helping preserve Goa’s cultural heritage.
The initiative could also encourage greater recognition and market opportunities for local artisans, while strengthening the tradition of making idols using locally practiced clay-based techniques.
With the Chief Minister assuring that the process will be expedited, the proposed board marks a step towards giving greater institutional support to Goa’s traditional clay-art community.
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