It is a voluntary organization working for the welfare of crafts persons and the development of handicrafts. It acts as the apex body of 10 affiliated State Councils. It is affiliated to the World Crafts Council, which is the only non - governmental international organization working in the craft sector. It addresses the needs of craftsperson, protecting craft traditions and providing a bridge between India's craft heritage and the challenges of a contemporary environment.  Some of the means through which it works are as follows are research and documentation, skill and technology up-gradation and product development and marketing.