UNDP Carpet Project

Introduction
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) hand knotted carpet project was launched in 2001 to establish a distinctive Indian character in carpet designs and simultaneously upgrade the technology. This enabled better quality carpets combining the fresh designing skills with the age-old traditions. Many partners including NIFT and CEPC came forward to make the task possible.

Objective
The main objective of the project was to accelerate exports and establishing a brand name.

Develop and market new designs based on Indian ethnic themes. Involve importers in us markets and enhance the scope through road shows and participation in fairs & exhibitions. Introduce new tools and looms developed by Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi to improve productivity and quality. Encourage production of carpets based on vegetable dyes.

Initial Project Partners

NIFT & Designers IIT, Delhi WRA, Mumbai IICT, Bhadohi CEPC & Exporters

Design Concept & Development
The hand knotted carpets produced till now were based on traditional Persian patterns. The Indian carpets, they did not have any uniqueness accept the variety in prices and quality. The designs and patterns followed were the ones passed for generations with hardly any artistic changes in them. Further more the market trends were changing and the changes had to be brought into the craft for its sustenance and upliftment. All these aspects were dealt with in a professional way involving all partner associations. New designs received very encouraging response in international market. This has led to investment towards professional design experts by Indian exporters Indian More and more exporters have started developing and marketing carpets having Indian identity After improving on these basic aspects regarding quality, variety, technology and patterns, a strategy was developed for the marketing of the products. First, establishing a brand name was important. For the purpose the task of promotion in India. The finished carpets were displayed in various shows and fairs in India and then in U.S. and Europe. For the project, IIT-Delhi developed improved looms, hand tools, washing, squeezing and drying chambers. The Wool Research Association worked on the standardization of the extraction process of dyes, making the venture eco-friendly and promoting awareness of the potential of natural dyes. The Indian Institute of Carpet Technology has set up design studios and the Carpet Export Promotion Council is into showcasing the collection worldwide.