Question 6:Examine the features of cottage manufacturing or household
industries.
The correct answer is – Cottage manufacturing or household industries refer to small-scale industrial units that are typically operated from home or in small premises in rural or semi-urban areas. These industries usually involve low capital investment, use of locally available resources, and traditional manufacturing techniques. Some of the key features of cottage manufacturing or household industries are:
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Small scale of production: Cottage manufacturing is characterized by small scale production of goods, which is often done using manual labor or simple tools and machinery.
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Use of local resources: Cottage industries make use of locally available raw materials, such as wood, bamboo, jute, cotton, and silk. This helps to reduce the cost of production and supports the local economy.
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Traditional manufacturing techniques: Many cottage industries rely on traditional manufacturing techniques that have been passed down through generations. These techniques are often labor-intensive and require skilled craftsmanship.
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Low capital investment: Cottage industries typically involve low capital investment and can be started with minimal resources, making them accessible to people with limited financial means.
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Flexibility: Cottage industries are highly flexible and can adapt to changing market demands and production needs. They can also be easily scaled up or down depending on the availability of resources.
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Employment generation: Cottage industries provide employment opportunities to people in rural and semi-urban areas, which helps to reduce unemployment and poverty.