The Crafts Council of India (CCI) is a voluntary non-profit organisation, working for the welfare of artisans and the development of handicrafts. It was established in the year 1964 by Smt. Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay and later registered in 1977 with its headquarters in Chennai. CCI is the apex body with a network of 10 State Councils and is affiliated to the World Crafts Council.

CCI strives to fulfil the needs of artisans, nurture craft traditions and provide a bridge between India's craft heritage and the challenges of a contemporary milieu. Among other things, the CCI focuses on:

• Education and Training – in upgrading skill and technology
• Product development and marketing
• Engaging the government in active dialogue on the importance of crafts to the country. Link to CEIS…

These activities of the Craft Council help hone the relevance and marketability of the crafts, bringing them into the spotlight and creating sustainable livelihood for artisans.