Sustainability Challenges in the Brassware Export Industry of Moradabad: A Policy Perspective

Abstract

The export business of Moradabad brassware, also referred to as Peetal Nagri in the world and the largest in India, has always remained at the center of the Indian handicraft economy, bringing in foreign income, livelihoods of thousands of artisans and MSMEs. Although it is essential in terms of economic importance, the industry is experiencing pressures of sustainability due to environmental degradation, socio-economic weaknesses, and policy implementation loopholes. This research paper discusses these issues in the policy-level perspective through an analytical system constructed based on the secondary data of governmental reports, environmental reports, clusterlevel studies, and literature. The results indicate that the conventional production methods like casting, polishing, and electroplating have major pollution imprints that result in heavy-metal pollution of soil and water bodies, particularly the Ramganga River. Informal labour arrangements, health risks, lack of safety precautions and social security are other social issues that pose threats to long-term sustainability. The industry is threatened economically by the mechanized international production, increased cost of inputs, changeable demand of exports, and the lack of innovation of cleaner technologies. Although the ODOP, MSME schemes and cluster development programs are government policies aimed to empower the sector, the issue of sustainability is not well-planned. The paper highlights how policy reforms including the adoption of green technology, increased environmental regulation, enhanced worker protection and global sustainability compliances are necessary. The results can offer practical recommendations to policy makers who want to make the Moradabad brassware industry in line with sustainability and the changing face of trade in the world.