toy exports to USA , EU and Middle East , India could earn export revenues in the range of USD0.9 Mn – USD4.4 Bn .
Recently domestic toy industry has witnessed renewed focus and a flurry of activities . Toys have been identified as one of the key sectors under Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan and various initiatives have been taken both by the Central and State Governments towards building a world class toy ecosystem in India and fast track the growth of this sector .
Mr . Vivek Jhangiani , Past President , The All India Toy Manufacturers Association ( TAITMA ) and Chair FICCI Toy Steering Committee commending the recent initiatives taken by the government firmly believes that “ For a child to develop , it is important that play is integral to his / her life . The toy industry has a critical role in bringing play to every child of every strata in India , by delivering quality toys at affordable price points . Supporting children ’ s right to play , toys are an essential pedagogical tool , which imparts learning through different skill sets to children and allows them to grow into contributing adult members of society .”
A National Action Plan focused on using toys as a pedagogical tool , strengthening domestic manufacturing & exports , monitoring quality , introducing new designs and innovations , setting up indigenous toy clusters , promoting toy tourism , skills development etc . has been put together in consultation with several central ministries and departments . Multiple states across the country have announced cluster development programs to support toy manufacturing .
In order to fast forward India ’ s growth in this industry , the report makes the following recommendations :
Enhancing manufacturing competitiveness by ensuring availability of key components & raw materials , competitive pricing , robust supply chain through the roll-out of a phased manufacturing program
Building strategic relationships with global players to leverage their subject matter expertise and developing an ecosystem of suppliers
Formulating and implementing a toy policy focused on growth and ease of doing business . Simplification of BIS and other mandatory compliances , introduction of a unified GST rate , standardization of KYC-PAN or GST numbers for government approvals , dedicated nodal agency , labour reforms etc . will go a long way in creating a conducive environment for development of this sector
Investing in R & D and skills development by establishing toy design centers , incentivizing technical institutes to offer specialized courses in toy and game design , and training people in 3D product prototype visualization etc .
Encouraging creativity and innovation by promoting local artisans , toy-based tourism and start-ups in the toy sector
Increasing the numbers , capabilities , and geographic coverage of labs available for testing and certification
Further commenting on the report co-authored by Mr . Jhangiani , he says that “ This report provides an important information foundation on a hitherto unorganized industry which can be revolutionized into a large innovative and organized industry that meets the needs of children not only in India but throughout the world ”.
Vivek Jhangiani Past President - TAITMA
Chair - FICCI Toy Steering Committee
Kids India Magazine - Dec 2021 | Page 5