[ The Indian Express ] As artisans begin crafting Ganesha idols, Fadnavis stands his ground on viable alternative to PoP

The article  discusses the concerns raised by artisans about the ban on Plaster of Paris (PoP) for manufacturing Ganesha idols. With Ganeshotsav just a few months away, a delegation led by BJP Mumbai president Ashish Shelar met Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss these concerns.

Fadnavis emphasized the importance of manufacturing eco-friendly Ganesh idols and urged the delegation to promote idols made from “shadu” soil. He reassured the delegation that all concerns will be addressed and urged them to find a feasible solution to PoP.

Shelar expressed that while there was no objection to the use of ‘shadu’ soil, an indiscriminate ban on the use of PoP across Maharashtra could have a severe impact on Ganesha idol makers, potentially leading to unemployment and unfulfilled demand for idols.

The state government needs to closely examine this industry, which has a significant financial turnover, and find a viable solution that addresses environmental concerns while also meeting the demand for Ganesha idols. The concerns include potential unemployment of artisans who rely on this industry for their livelihood, and losses to small businesses that provide dyes and other materials for making the idols.

Pen taluka in Raigad district and its surrounding area is considered the hub of Ganesha idol makers, with almost 1,600 such businesses. These artisans craft idols ranging from 6 inches to 12 feet in height, generating an annual business of more than Rs 250 to Rs 300 crore. Of these, about 1.25 crore idols are sent to six different states, including Goa, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra, and Tamil Nadu. Similar manufacturing units exist in Mumbai, Thane, and other places across the state, bringing in a substantial turnover.

Source: Conversation with Copilot
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