17. Dhokra Metal Casting: Supply Chain Obstacles in Tribal Metallurgy

Structural Mechanics

Dhokra metal casting is a traditional lost-wax casting technique (cire perdue) practiced by tribal metalsmiths in Odisha, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh. This ancient metallurgical process uses non-ferrous metal alloys, fine clay cores, and beeswax layers to create highly detailed, non-jointed figurines. The craft faces supply chain obstacles, including raw material price volatility (copper, brass, and beeswax), the loss of local fuel sources, and low access to formal credit markets.

Data-Driven Metrics

• Alloy Composition: Authenticated Dhokra castings consist of a brass-copper alloy with minor zinc additions, ensuring high tensile strength and fine surface detail.
• Artisan Income Capture: Due to dependency on local traders for raw materials, independent Dhokra artisans capture less than 20% of the final retail value of their work.
• Fuel Transition: Over 80% of Dhokra kilns still rely on coal or firewood, exposing artisans to hazardous particulate emissions and environmental regulation challenges.

Strategic Vector

State departments of metallurgy and small industries should establish community solar-induction kilns in Dhokra clusters, reducing raw material wastage and fuel costs.