Chikan laptop bags, the in-thing

Footwear with embroidered chikankari work; bamboo floor coverings, coasters and mats and ethnic fashion accessories are among several innovative designs being brought out by the National Centre for Design and Product Development (NCDPD), set up by Ministry of Textiles.

Besides design and product development services, the Delhi-based centre is also engaged in exhibition designs, showroom and store development, visual merchandising, graphic and package designs and image building and branding.

"Our specialised design services include setting up of design studios, design promotion and research, industry linkage and tie-ups," says NCDPD`s executive director R K Srivastava.

The designers of the centre are now working hard to create more items involving chikankari motifs.

"Our designers have been working with organisations involved in chikankari and zardozi work and have come up with an innovative range of products like garments, bags, jewellery and accessories besides sarees, dress materials and home furnishings with chikankari and zardozi embroidery," Srivastava told PTI.

The capacity and skill development programs of the centre have provided a unique opportunity for handicraft artisans and craft persons to upgrade their skills. More than 11000 artisans and craft persons have been trained in past two years, covered over 30 craft clusters across India.