Relevance: APPSC Andhra Pradesh Economy, Tourism, Governance, Science & Technology, Current Affairs
For Prelims:
- NiVU AI Platform, APTDC, Xplorer, AI-powered Tourism, QR Code-based Services, Mangalagiri Pilot Project, Swarna Andhra Vision-2047, Kandula Durgesh
For Mains:
- AI-led Governance, Digital Tourism, Smart Tourism Infrastructure, Language Inclusion, Citizen-centric Service Delivery, Tourism Economy, Technology-enabled Public Services
Why in News?
- Andhra Pradesh Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh announced that the State is poised to become India’s first AI-powered tourism State. The State will roll out the NiVU AI platform to improve visitor experience at tourist destinations. A three-year strategic MoU was signed between APTDC and Xplorer. The initiative follows a successful pilot project at Mangalagiri.
About the NiVU AI Initiative
The NiVU AI platform is an Artificial Intelligence-based tourism service designed to provide destination-related information to visitors.
It will help tourists access information about:
- Heritage sites
- Forts
- Beaches
- Caves
- Other important tourist destinations in Andhra Pradesh
The platform aims to make tourism more convenient, interactive and language-friendly.
Implementation Plan
The initiative will be implemented across Andhra Pradesh in a phased manner.
- Pilot project: Successfully implemented at Mangalagiri.
- First year: Rollout at 30 major tourist destinations.
- Three-year target: Expansion across the State within three years.
- Overall coverage: NiVU AI services will be introduced at more than 100 tourist destinations.
The project will be implemented through a three-year strategic MoU between:
- Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation
- Xplorer
Key Features of NiVU AI Platform
QR Code-based Access
- Tourists can access the service by simply scanning a Quick Response code at tourist destinations.
No App Download
- Visitors do not need to download any separate mobile application.
Voice and Text Interaction
- The platform allows AI-powered conversations through both voice and text.
Multilingual Service
- The platform supports more than 130 languages, helping tourists receive information in their preferred language.
Free of Cost
- The service will be available free of cost for tourists.
Governance and Tourism Significance
Improved Visitor Experience
- Tourists can receive quick and interactive information about tourist places without depending only on physical guides or printed material.
Language Inclusion
- Support for more than 130 languages can help domestic and international tourists understand destinations better.
Convenient Tourism
- QR code access and no-app usage make the service simple and easy for visitors.
Promotion of Tourist Destinations
- The platform can help present information on heritage sites, forts, beaches and caves in a more accessible manner.
Positive Pilot Response
- The Tourism Minister stated that the Mangalagiri pilot project has already been receiving an encouraging response from hundreds of devotees every day.
Link with Swarna Andhra Vision-2047
- Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh described the initiative as a historic step towards achieving Swarna Andhra Vision-2047.
- By using Artificial Intelligence in tourism services, Andhra Pradesh is attempting to improve tourist experience and strengthen the State’s tourism sector through digital innovation.
Conclusion
Andhra Pradesh’s plan to introduce the NiVU AI platform across more than 100 tourist destinations marks an important step in digital tourism.The initiative combines Artificial Intelligence, multilingual access and QR code-based service delivery to make tourism more interactive and visitor-friendly.If implemented effectively, the project can support Andhra Pradesh’s tourism development and contribute to the broader goals of Swarna Andhra Vision-2047.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding Andhra Pradesh’s NiVU AI tourism initiative:
- NiVU AI services are proposed to be introduced at more than 100 tourist destinations in Andhra Pradesh.
- The initiative is being implemented through a three-year MoU between APTDC and Xplorer.
- Tourists must download a separate mobile application to access the service.
- The platform supports AI-powered conversations in more than 130 languages.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 4 only
C. 2, 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b) 1, 2 and 4 only
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: NiVU AI services will be introduced at more than 100 tourist destinations across Andhra Pradesh.
Statement 2 is correct: A three-year strategic MoU was signed between APTDC and Xplorer.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Tourists can access the platform by scanning a QR code without downloading an application.
Statement 4 is correct: The platform supports AI-powered conversations in more than 130 languages through voice or text.
FAQs
1. What is NiVU AI?
NiVU AI is an AI-powered tourism platform for providing destination information to tourists.
2. Which State is rolling out NiVU AI for tourism?
Andhra Pradesh is rolling out the platform.
3. Where was the pilot project conducted?
The pilot project was conducted at Mangalagiri.
4. How many tourist destinations will be covered?
More than 100 tourist destinations will be covered.
5. Which organisations signed the MoU?
The MoU was signed between APTDC and Xplorer.
Relevance: UPSC GS Paper II: International Relations, India and ASEAN, Bilateral Relations
For Prelims:
- Indonesia, Bintang Adipurna, Jawaharlal Nehru, Biju Patnaik, Sutan Sjahrir, Soekarno, Mohammad Hatta, POETARA, Battle of Soerabaya, Merdeka, BrahMos, Astra Missile, IFC-IOR, Prambanan Temple, IIM Bangalore, Comprehensive Strategic Partnership 2018, Strait of Malacca, Critical Minerals
For Mains:
- India–Indonesia relations, Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Anti-colonial solidarity, Indo-Pacific security, Maritime cooperation, Defence diplomacy, Critical mineral supply chains, Act East Policy, Cultural diplomacy, Strategic autonomy
Why in News?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a State Visit to Indonesia, strengthening the India–Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, received Bintang Adipurna (Indonesia’s highest civilian honour), becoming the second Indian Prime Minister after Jawaharlal Nehru to receive it, and both countries signed agreements in defence, maritime security, critical minerals, telecom, health, education and cultural cooperation.
Historical Background of India–Indonesia Relations
- India and Indonesia share ancient civilisational and maritime links through trade, culture and religion.
- Indian influences such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Ramayana traditions and temple architecture became part of Indonesia’s cultural heritage.
- These old cultural links later developed into political solidarity during the anti-colonial period.
- Both India and Indonesia fought against European colonial powers and became strong voices of Asian-African unity.
- This shared post-colonial outlook was later reflected in the Bandung Conference, 1955 and the Non-Aligned Movement.
How Indonesia Attained Independence
- Indonesia was earlier under Dutch colonial rule and was known as the Dutch East Indies.
- During World War II, Japan defeated the Dutch and occupied Indonesia in 1942.
- Indonesian nationalist leaders such as Soekarno and Mohammad Hatta used this period to strengthen the freedom movement.
- On 9 March 1943, the Japanese helped set up POETARA, an organisation through which Indonesian nationalists expanded political mobilisation.
- After Japan surrendered on 14 August 1945, Indonesian leaders saw an opportunity to declare freedom.
- On 17 August 1945, Soekarno, Mohammad Hatta and Sutan Sjahrir declared Indonesia’s independence.
- However, the Dutch tried to return after the war, making Indonesia’s independence fragile in the initial years.
India’s Role in Indonesia’s Freedom Struggle
- India supported Indonesia’s independence and raised its cause at international platforms, including the United Nations.
- Biju Patnaik, then a civilian aviator, played a notable role by flying Indonesian leader Sutan Sjahrir to New Delhi in 1947.
- This helped Indonesia’s leaders gain diplomatic support for their freedom struggle.
- At the same time, the British used Indian and Gurkha soldiers under British command to suppress Indonesian nationalists.
- The 23rd Indian Division reached Batavia on 29 September 1945, and more Indian and Nepali soldiers reached Soerabaya on 25 October 1945.
- The Battle of Soerabaya became a tragic episode where Indian soldiers under British command were placed against Indonesian nationalists.
- Indian nationalist leaders, including Jawaharlal Nehru, opposed the use of Indian troops for re-colonising Indonesia and demanded their withdrawal.
- Thus, India’s public and political leadership stood firmly with Indonesia’s freedom struggle, strengthening the foundation of modern India–Indonesia relations.
Key Outcomes of the State Visit
The visit resulted in a series of agreements across defence, security, technology, health, education, culture and critical minerals.
Major outcomes included:
- Supply of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile systems to Indonesia.
- Export order for India’s Astra air-to-air missile system.
- Agreements on defence technology transfer and industrial cooperation.
- Cooperation in critical mineral extraction.
- Maritime security cooperation.
- Digital telecom cooperation, including wireless and quantum technologies.
- Supply of medicines and medical products to Indonesia.
- Establishment of an IIM Bangalore campus in Indonesia.
- Conservation and restoration of the Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta.
The visit also reflected the growing trust between the two countries in the fields of development, security, technology, culture and education.
Defence and Maritime Partnership
Defence and maritime security were among the most important areas of cooperation during the visit.
BrahMos and Astra Missile Cooperation
Indonesia signed agreements related to the procurement of:
- BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system
- Astra air-to-air missile system
This is significant for India because it strengthens:
- India’s defence exports.
- The Make in India initiative.
- India’s image as a reliable defence technology partner.
- Defence cooperation with ASEAN countries.
Maritime Security Cooperation
India and Indonesia are maritime neighbours and key players in the Indo-Pacific.
Both countries had adopted the Shared Vision of India–Indonesia Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific in 2018.
During the visit, cooperation was strengthened through:
- Enhanced maritime security dialogue.
- Defence exchanges.
- Disaster management cooperation.
- Industrial cooperation.
- Maritime domain awareness.
Indonesia will also station a Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region in India. This will improve real-time information sharing and maritime surveillance.
India will earmark training slots for Indonesian cadets and officers in:
- National Defence Academy
- Defence Services Staff College
This will strengthen defence capacity building between the two countries.
Critical Minerals, Technology and Health Cooperation
Critical Minerals
Indonesia is an important player in the global critical minerals sector.
It has around 21% of the world’s nickel reserves and is among the top global producers of:
- Nickel
- Copper
- Bauxite
- Tin
These minerals are important for:
- Electric vehicles
- Batteries
- Advanced electronics
- Defence manufacturing
- Clean-energy technologies
Cooperation with Indonesia can help India diversify critical mineral supply chains and reduce strategic vulnerabilities.
Technology and Telecom
India and Indonesia agreed to cooperate in advanced telecom technologies, including:
- Wireless technologies
- Quantum-related technologies
- Digital connectivity
This reflects the growing role of technology in bilateral relations.
Health Cooperation
The agreements also included:
- Supply of medicines and medical products to Indonesia.
- Cooperation in health-related areas.
- Strengthening of regulatory and institutional linkages.
This adds a welfare and development dimension to the partnership.
Cultural and Educational Diplomacy
India and Indonesia also focused on cultural and educational cooperation.
IIM Bangalore Campus in Indonesia
A pact was signed to open an Indian Institute of Management Bangalore campus in Indonesia. This is important for India’s educational outreach and knowledge diplomacy.
It can support:
- Management education
- Skill development
- Academic cooperation
- People-to-people relations
- India’s soft power in Southeast Asia
Prambanan Temple Restoration
- India will support efforts for the conservation and restoration of the Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta.
- Prambanan is Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple complex and represents the deep civilisational connection between India and Indonesia.
- The Prime Minister also stated that visiting Prambanan with President Prabowo Subianto would strengthen cultural linkages between the two nations.
Strategic Significance for India
The India–Indonesia partnership is strategically important for several reasons.
1. Act East Policy
Indonesia is a key partner in India’s Act East Policy and engagement with ASEAN.
2. Indo-Pacific Security
Indonesia’s location makes it central to the Indo-Pacific. Stronger maritime cooperation supports a free, open and secure maritime order.
3. Strait of Malacca
Indonesia is located near the Strait of Malacca, one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints. Cooperation with Indonesia helps India strengthen maritime awareness and regional security.
4. Defence Exports
BrahMos and Astra agreements strengthen India’s defence export profile and support indigenous defence manufacturing.
5. Critical Mineral Security
Indonesia’s mineral resources are important for India’s energy transition, EV manufacturing, battery ecosystem and advanced industries.
6. ASEAN Engagement
Indonesia is one of the most influential countries in ASEAN. Stronger ties with Jakarta improve India’s broader engagement with Southeast Asia.
Conclusion
India–Indonesia relations are rooted in civilisational contact, anti-colonial solidarity and shared commitment to post-colonial cooperation. The recent State Visit has pushed the partnership into a wider strategic phase covering defence, maritime security, critical minerals, technology, education and culture.For India, Indonesia is not only an ASEAN partner but also a crucial maritime neighbour in the Indo-Pacific. A stronger India–Indonesia partnership can support regional stability, secure supply chains, defence cooperation and cultural diplomacy. It also strengthens India’s vision of a peaceful, multipolar and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
UPSC PYQ
Q. In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of the G20?( (2020)
A. Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey
B. Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand
C. Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam
D. Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea
Answer: A
Explanation
- Option (a) – Correct: Argentina, Mexico, South Africa, and Türkiye (Turkey) are all members of the G20.
- Option (b) – Incorrect: Malaysia and New Zealand are not G20 members.
- Option (c) – Incorrect: Iran and Vietnam are not G20 members.
- Option (d) – Incorrect: Singapore is not a G20 member (though it is often invited as a guest), while Indonesia, Japan, and South Korea are G20 members.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding India–Indonesia relations:
- India and Indonesia elevated their relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018.
- Bintang Adipurna is Indonesia’s highest national honour.
- Biju Patnaik helped Indonesian anti-colonial leader Sutan Sjahrir reach New Delhi in 1947.
- Indonesia is one of the major global producers of nickel, copper, bauxite and tin.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: India–Indonesia relations were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018.
Statement 2 is correct: Bintang Adipurna is Indonesia’s highest national honour, conferred for exceptional service to the nation.
Statement 3 is correct: Biju Patnaik flew Indonesian leader Sutan Sjahrir to New Delhi in 1947, helping Indonesia’s freedom movement gain diplomatic support.
Statement 4 is correct: Indonesia has major reserves and production capacity in critical minerals such as nickel, copper, bauxite and tin.
FAQs
Q. What is Bintang Adipurna?
It is Indonesia’s highest national honour.
Q. Who was Sutan Sjahrir?
He was an Indonesian anti-colonial leader associated with the freedom movement.
Q. What was POETARA?
It was a Central National Organisation set up in Indonesia on 9 March 1943 during Japanese occupation.
Q. Why is Indonesia important for India?
Indonesia is a key ASEAN partner and maritime neighbour in the Indo-Pacific.
Q. Which defence systems are linked to the recent India–Indonesia agreements?
The agreements include BrahMos and Astra missile systems.
Relevance: UPSC: GS Paper III: Manufacturing, MSMEs, Exports, Innovation, Industrial Policy
For Prelims:
- Toy Industry, National Action Plan for Toys 2020, Quality Control Order 2020, BIS, IS 9873, IS 15644, Toycathon, e-Toycathon, e-Toys Lab, C-DAC Noida, ODOP, GI-tagged Toys, Channapatna Toys, Thanjavur Doll, Districts as Export Hubs, Toy Biz International B2B Exhibition
For Mains:
- Atmanirbhar Bharat, MSME-led manufacturing, export competitiveness, cultural economy, local to global, skill development, STEM learning, quality standardisation, women and artisan livelihoods
Why in News?
- India’s toy industry is being strengthened through policy support, quality control, export promotion and indigenous manufacturing.
- The sector has moved from import dependence towards global competitiveness, with India becoming a net exporter of toys.
- Toy exports increased from US$152.7 million in 2017–18 to US$384.7 million in 2025–26.
- Government initiatives such as National Action Plan for Toys, QCO, Toycathon, ODOP, GI promotion and Districts as Export Hubs are supporting the sector.
India’s Toy Industry: Heritage and Opportunity
India’s toy industry reflects a blend of cultural heritage, craftsmanship, innovation and manufacturing growth.
- India’s toy tradition dates back nearly 5,000 years.
- Excavations at Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro reveal ancient toy-making traditions, including clay carts and figurines.
- Traditional toys such as wooden figurines and dolls inspired by the Ramayana and Mahabharata connected children with India’s cultural heritage.
- Today, traditional craftsmanship is being combined with modern design, technology and entrepreneurship.
This transformation is helping India emerge as a hub for quality, safe, educational and culturally rooted toys.
Export Performance and Trade TurnaroundIndia’s toy sector has shown strong export growth over the last decade. Overall Toy Exports
Electronic and Non-Electronic Toys – HSN 9503
Video Game Consoles and Machines – HSN 9504
Festive and Entertainment Articles – HSN 9505
Import Reduction and Trade Surplus
This shift shows the strengthening of domestic manufacturing, export competitiveness and foreign exchange earnings. |
Emerging Growth Drivers
India’s toy industry is gaining momentum due to strong supply-side and demand-side factors.
Large Consumer Base
- India’s population exceeds 1.4 billion, with a significant share below the age of 25 years.
- Rising incomes and improving purchasing power are increasing toy consumption.
Changing Consumer Preferences
- Urbanisation and changing lifestyles are creating demand for modern and licensed toys.
- Parents are increasingly choosing educational, skill-based and STEM toys.
Technology and Digitalisation
- Smart toys using Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality are gaining popularity.
- E-commerce platforms are improving market access for manufacturers and artisans.
Cultural Advantage
- India’s traditional toys have strong domestic and international appeal due to their cultural value and handmade identity.
Economic Impact
- The toy industry is not only a cultural sector but also an important contributor to the economy.
It supports:
- Artisans
- MSMEs
- Manufacturers
- Traders
- Women entrepreneurs
- Rural and urban livelihoods
- Employment in Games and Toys, under NIC Code 324, more than doubled from 8,685 in 2018–19 to 17,693 in 2023–24.
- This highlights the sector’s role in employment generation, entrepreneurship and local enterprise development.
Government Initiatives
National Action Plan for Toys, 2020
The National Action Plan for Toys was formulated to strengthen India’s toy ecosystem.
It focuses on:
- Promoting toys based on Indian culture, values and history.
- Encouraging toys as a learning resource.
- Supporting indigenous toy clusters.
- Promoting local manufacturing.
- Monitoring toy quality.
- Restricting unsafe and sub-standard imports.
- Incentivising toy manufacturers.
Quality Control Order for Toys, 2020
The Quality Control Order was introduced to ensure toy safety and improve product quality.
Key features:
- Made BIS certification compulsory for domestic and foreign manufacturers.
- Ensures compliance with Indian safety standards.
- Covers physical, chemical and electrical safety requirements.
- Helped create a level playing field for domestic manufacturers.
As of May 2026, BIS granted:
- 1,786 licences to domestic manufacturers.
- 56 licences to foreign manufacturers.
These licences are linked to toy safety standards IS 9873 and IS 15644.
The QCO exempts:
- Artisans registered with the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts).
- Registered proprietors and authorised users of GI-tagged products.
Tariff Measures
To reduce the price advantage of imported toys and support local manufacturing:
- MFN tariff on toys increased from 20% to 60% in 2020.
- It was further raised to 70% in 2023.
- Tariff on Parts of Electronic Toys, HS 95030091, was revised to 20% in Union Budget 2025–26.
These measures support domestic production, employment and trade balance.
Toy Biz International B2B Exhibition
The Toy Biz International B2B Exhibition was held from 4–7 July 2026 in New Delhi.
It provides:
- A platform for toy manufacturers.
- Access to domestic and international buyers.
- Business networking opportunities.
- Market expansion support.
- Global promotion for Indian toys.
Toycathon and e-Toycathon
- Toycathon, launched in 2021, supports the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- It encourages students, teachers, designers, experts and start-ups to develop toys and games based on:
- Indian culture
- Heritage
- Local folklore
- National heroes
- Value systems
- To strengthen electronic toys, the government organised the first Electronic Toy Hackathon, or e-Toycathon, in 2025.
- It focused on innovative and educational electronic toys that promote creativity, learning and child development.
e-Toys Lab
The e-Toys Lab was established by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology at C-DAC, Noida.
It aims to strengthen India’s indigenous electronic toy industry through:
- Hands-on training in electronic toy design.
- Prototype development.
- Product testing.
- Integration of electronics and IT with toy manufacturing.
Selected young engineers, including candidates from SC/ST and the North Eastern Region, undergo one year of structured training:
- 6 months of research at e-Toys Lab.
- 6 months of industry training.
Manak Manthan
In April 2026, BIS organised Manak Manthan on IS 9873 Part 1:2025.
It focused on:
- Mechanical safety requirements.
- Physical safety requirements.
- Awareness among manufacturers and stakeholders.
- Adoption of Indian Standards.
This supports the production of safer and more reliable toys for children.
GI, ODOP and District Export Promotion
One District, One Product
The ODOP initiative promotes district-specific products by supporting branding, manufacturing, exports and employment.
For the toy sector, ODOP helps in:
- Product diversification.
- Branding and packaging.
- Skill development.
- Quality standardisation.
- E-commerce access.
- Participation in international expos.
- Export certification awareness.
- Funding, marketing and technology upgradation.
GI-Tagged Toys
Several traditional Indian toys have received Geographical Indication status.
Examples include:
- Channapatna Toys and Dolls – Karnataka
- Leather Toys of Indore – Madhya Pradesh
- Thanjavur Doll – Tamil Nadu
GI tagging helps:
- Preserve traditional knowledge.
- Protect regional identity.
- Prevent unauthorised use.
- Improve market value.
- Support artisan livelihoods.
- Promote rural economic development.
GST Reduction
The reduction of GST on toys from 12% to 5% has made toys more affordable.
It also supports:
- Domestic demand.
- Educational and developmental toys.
- MSMEs and local manufacturers.
- Early childhood learning through play.
Free Trade Agreements
India’s trade agreements provide zero-duty market access for Indian toy exports in partner countries.
Important agreements include:
- India-UAE CEPA
- India-Australia ECTA
- India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement
- India-Oman CEPA
- India-New Zealand FTA
- India-United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement
These agreements can improve India’s access to global toy markets.
Districts as Export Hubs
The Districts as Export Hubs initiative aims to transform districts into export growth centres.
Key features:
- State Export Promotion Committees and District Export Promotion Committees have been formed in 36 States and Union Territories.
- Products and services with export potential have been identified in all districts.
- GI products, agricultural clusters and toy clusters are included.
- More than 10 districts have been identified with toy and doll export potential.
This supports local industries, employment, market linkages and balanced regional growth.
Significance
India’s toy ecosystem is important for multiple reasons.
- Manufacturing Growth: Strengthens domestic toy production and reduces import dependence.
- Export Competitiveness: Helps India enter global toy and entertainment goods markets.
- Cultural Preservation: Protects traditional toys and craft knowledge.
- Employment Generation: Supports artisans, MSMEs, women and small businesses.
- Education: Promotes STEM, skill-based and learning-oriented toys.
- Atmanirbhar Bharat: Encourages indigenous manufacturing and innovation.
- Local to Global: Links local toy clusters with international buyers and export markets.
Challenges
- Need for continuous quality compliance.
- Competition from large global toy producers.
- Limited scale among traditional artisans and MSMEs.
- Need for better design, packaging and branding.
- Requirement of technology adoption in electronic and smart toys.
- Export certification and global safety-standard challenges.
Way Forward
- Strengthen toy clusters with common facilities and design centres.
- Expand BIS awareness and quality certification support.
- Promote STEM and electronic toy innovation through e-Toys Lab and Toycathon.
- Link artisans with e-commerce, ODOP and export platforms.
- Support GI-tagged toys with branding and international promotion.
- Use FTAs and District Export Plans to scale exports.
Conclusion
India’s toy industry is moving from import dependence to export competitiveness by combining cultural heritage with modern manufacturing and innovation. Policy measures such as NAPT, QCO, Toycathon, ODOP, GI promotion, GST reduction and export-hub initiatives have strengthened domestic production and global market access.A stronger toy ecosystem can support Atmanirbhar Bharat, MSME-led growth, artisan livelihoods, women’s participation, educational development and Viksit Bharat 2047.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding India’s toy industry:
- India’s overall toy exports increased from US$152.7 million in 2017–18 to US$384.7 million in 2025–26.
- The Quality Control Order for Toys made BIS certification compulsory for both domestic and foreign manufacturers.
- Toycathon was launched to promote toys inspired by Indian culture, heritage and value systems.
- India recorded a trade deficit in toys in 2025–26 across key toy categories.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3 only
C. 2, 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b) 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: Toy exports increased from US$152.7 million in 2017–18 to US$384.7 million in 2025–26.
Statement 2 is correct: The Quality Control Order made BIS certification compulsory for domestic and foreign toy manufacturers.
Statement 3 is correct: Toycathon promotes toys and games inspired by Indian culture, heritage, folklore, heroes and value systems.
Statement 4 is incorrect: India recorded a trade surplus of US$152 million in 2025–26, not a deficit.
FAQs
Q. What is the National Action Plan for Toys?
It is a 2020 initiative to promote Indian toy design, safety, manufacturing and exports.
Q. What is the Quality Control Order for Toys?
It mandates BIS certification and safety compliance for toys sold in India.
Q. What is Toycathon?
It is an innovation initiative to develop toys and games based on Indian culture and learning needs.
Q. Name one GI-tagged toy of India.
Channapatna Toys of Karnataka.
Q. Why is India’s toy sector important?
It supports manufacturing, exports, employment, artisans and early childhood learning.
