India is taking exciting steps to boost its toy industry. Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University is launching a new four-year Bachelor of Design (B.Design) program focused on Toy Design and Development. This initiative, in partnership with the Toy Association of India, will be based at the University School of Design & Innovation (USDI).
This announcement came during the 16th Toy Biz International B2B Exhibition, the largest toy expo in Asia, held in New Delhi. It’s a big opportunity for the university to showcase its vision and engage with industry leaders.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, who opened the exhibition, visited the university’s stall. He expressed pride in the students’ work, noting how their innovative designs reflect India’s cultural richness. He shared personal stories about his own childhood toys, connecting the past to the present.
Prof. Mahesh Verma, the university’s Vice Chancellor, stressed the importance of this program. The toy industry in India is valued at about $3 billion and is rapidly expanding. “We need skilled professionals in this field, and this program aims to fill that gap,” he said. His vision aligns with the Indian government’s goal to make the country a global hub for toy manufacturing.
The new B.Design program will offer a mix of hands-on training in design thinking, cultural research, prototyping, automation integration, and understanding child psychology. Prof. Arvinder Kaur, Dean of USDI, highlighted that the university is not just about creating toys but designing experiences and stories that resonate with children.
A recent survey indicates that 73% of parents value toys that promote creativity and learning, showing a strong market for thoughtful, well-designed toys. This program could help fill the gap between traditional toy-making and innovative design.
With its focus on creativity and cultural context, IP University is setting the stage for a promising transformation in India’s toy industry. By blending education with innovation, the university is poised to make a significant impact in this vibrant sector.