Copyright indiatoday
This special report from Chhattisgarh's Durg highlights a unique workshop at Govt. V.Y.T. PG Autonomous College, where students are turning scrap metal into art. A college representative noted, 'The Bastar region, which was once afflicted by Maoism, has amazing art forms.' Under the New Education Policy 2020's skill-based learning initiative, more than 45 history students are participating in a 10-day workshop to learn the intricate Bastar iron craft. Guided by master craftsmen from Bastar, Kondagaon, and Konta, the students are transforming waste materials into sculptures using traditional tools. This initiative not only preserves an indigenous tribal craft but also promotes eco-conscious thinking by creatively repurposing scrap, demonstrating how 'Kabad' (scrap) can be turned into 'Jugaad' (innovative solution). The resulting artworks will be used as mementos in college events.
