EXPLORING MANAGERIAL PROBLEMS OF WOOLEN COTTAGE INDUSTRY IN CHITRAL (PAKISTAN)

Abstract

Abstract

The local woolen industry in Chitral, Pakistan, holds a unique place both culturally and economically and sustains the livelihoods of the people of the locality. The woolen handicraft industry is under the danger of vanishing out, facing tough competition from medium and large scale corporations. The study is committed to address the problems relating to the management of local woolen cottage industry and intends to develop a strategic understanding of the threats and opportunities it offers.  Furthermore, it assess the overall status, craftsmen-related problems, and production processes in the niche. The research methodology contains a combination of qualitative and quantitative techniques, including the distribution of 220 questionnaires and conducting interviews from 40 respondents, choosing from a population of 3000 working in the woolen home-based industries of Garum Chashma Valley, Chitral. The researcher employed the convenience sampling technique due to the scattered and mountainous nature of the study area. The current study uncovers many challenges faced by the local craftsmen, comprising a lack of capital, managerial skills, outdated production methods, encroachment on grazing lands, disease prevalence, poor road conditions, and insufficient workplace environments.

Keywords: Woollen Cottage Industry, Problems, Artisans, Garum Chashma