Gurugram, February 20, 2026: BMW India Foundation is strengthening its focus on inclusive and sustainable development by supporting and upskilling traditional artisans across India. Through targeted partnerships and structured programmes, the Foundation aims to preserve indigenous art forms while enabling artisans to build sustainable livelihoods and improve socio-economic mobility.
Launched in 2025, the artisan empowerment programme addresses long-standing challenges faced by traditional artists, including limited access to structured skilling, contemporary design exposure, and organised market platforms. By collaborating with experienced implementation partners, the Foundation is facilitating skill enhancement, design innovation, and improved market linkages to help artisans respond to evolving consumer demand.
Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President & CEO, BMW Group India said, “At BMW India Foundation, we deeply respect the incredible craftsmanship and rich traditions of India’s artisans. For us, this is not just about preserving beautiful art forms, it’s about supporting the talented people who bring them to life. Many of these artisans face real challenges, from limited access to new skills to difficulty reaching bigger marketplaces. We want to help change that by giving them the tools, training, scope for experimentation and opportunities they need to grow and sustain their livelihoods. Programs like Project Chitravan and Project Phulkari are very close to our hearts. They allow artisans to stay connected to their roots while exploring new ideas and designs that appeal to modern customers.”
In central India, the Foundation has partnered with the Craft and Community Development Foundation (CCDF) to implement Project Chitravan. The initiative supports tribal artisans from Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra who practise indigenous art forms such as Gond, Warli, Bhil, Baiga, Sohrai, and Kohvar. Around 40 tribal artisans are currently being mentored under the programme, which combines traditional techniques with contemporary design inputs while retaining authenticity.
In Punjab, BMW India Foundation has collaborated with the Delhi Crafts Council to revitalise Phulkari embroidery. The initiative focuses on skill enhancement, revival of authentic techniques, and adoption of sustainable practices such as natural dyes and responsible material usage. Artisans are working with textile designers to create contemporary product lines including stoles, apparel accents, home décor items, and accessories. Around 30 artisans in Punjab are currently supported under this programme, with additional training in digital literacy and market readiness to strengthen access to emerging platforms.
Through these initiatives, BMW India Foundation seeks to create long-term economic opportunities for artisan communities while preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.
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