ARCH College of Design & Business has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rajasthan Grameen Aajeevika Vikas Parishad (Rajeevika) to collaborate on the Design Intervention Project, an initiative focused on empowering artisan communities through design innovation, skill development, and market-linked solutions. This partnership bridges creativity and community, giving traditional craftsmanship a contemporary relevance while strengthening women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs) across Rajasthan.
To mark the collaboration, ARCH hosted the Valedictory Ceremony of the Rajeevika × ARCH Design Intervention Project at its Jaipur campus. The event was graced by Neha Giri, IAS, State Mission Director, RGAVP, as Guest of Honour, and Pooja Singh, Project Coordinator, RGAVP, as Special Guest. The project was creatively mentored by Archana Surana, Founder & Director of ARCH College of Design & Business.
The two-month project, running from 11th August to 10th October 2025, engaged 35 design students with six artisan clusters from Bagru, Dausa, and Sanganer. Students gained hands-on exposure to rural crafts and sustainable design practices, developing 20 product prototypes across textiles, interiors, and jewellery, along with 10 packaging solutions.
During the ceremony, students presented their final projects, sharing experiences of working closely with artisans, understanding traditional techniques, experimenting with materials, and translating ideas into practical designs. An exhibition of final products featured blue pottery, terracotta, wood, bags, jewellery, and textiles, reflecting the fusion of heritage crafts and contemporary design.
Artisans explored new techniques, materials, and market insights, while students applied design thinking in real-world contexts. Six artisans were certified for their participation and creative contribution. Discussions concluded with plans to expand the project to more SHGs in 2026, reinforcing ARCH College’s commitment to design-led social innovation and rural empowerment.
Archana Surana, Founder and Director of ARCH College of Design & Business, has been re-elected as Board Member of the Cumulus Association Executive Board for the 2025–2028 term. She previously served as the Vice President from 2022 to 2025.
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