ABSTRACT
This chapter describes challenges of a handicrafts product cluster. It suggests how a 'cluster development approach' can address those challenges. The chapter presents hand block printed textiles cluster of Jaipur, Rajasthan with respect to its evolution and the challenges it faces, identifying various issues and means to meet those challenges through a 'cluster development approach' and analyses the results achieved. It also suggests a tool to trace the activity pattern in a cluster as it matures with the implementation of a 'cluster development programme' (CDP). Activity sequencing is an important tool to get familiarized with the pattern of activities that take place in a CDP. Thus, the vision of an underachieving handicraft cluster should ideally revolve around positioning the handicraft to targeted clientele based on product uniqueness, maintaining quality, customer and delivery and ensure optimum returns that would provide desired quality of life to the artisans.
