Planning for improving the socio-economic conditions of the stone inlay workers of Tajganj, Agra

Abstract

The skilful craft of stone inlay work, which has roots in Agra's history, represents cultural pride and a means of economic survival for the artisan families of Tajganj. Although Agra has pronounced historical significance and is in proximity to globally recognised tourist attractions (especially the Taj Mahal), the conditions of the artisan families engaged in stone inlay work are precarious. This research aims to critically explore the current socio-economic conditions of stone inlay workers and assess social indicators such as income, health, education, working conditions, and access to market opportunities. Through a combination of literature review and primary data collection, the study identifies persistent challenges including low wages, poor working environments, exploitation by middlemen, and the lack of structured selling mechanisms. This research also explores tourism and market linkages and how they contribute to the economic conditions of the artisans and assesses how either tourism-based demand or non-tourism-based demand impacts the economic livelihoods of the artisans in Tajganj. Survey responses illustrate that even though artisans are located in major tourist locations in Agra, they experience structural and policy-based barriers to development and growth. Common and significant issues reported by artisans included an unstructured supply chain, poor access to the market, lack of government support and assistance, and limited health benefits. The research ends with detailed planning frameworks that focus on improving the workers' overall condition. These frameworks assess direct access to markets, skills, individual worker health, and infrastructure and policy interlinkages involving government, private and civil society. The research offers recommendations for incorporating traditional craftsmanship into wider economic and tourism models that are practical and scalable to ensure the best long-term sustainable future for Tajganj's stone inlay workers. Keywords: Stone Inlay Workers, Socio-Economic Conditions, Creative Economy, Tajganj, Market Linkages, Artisan Empowerment, Sustainable Development