Cuttack, May 21 -- The historic city Cuttack, known as the "Silver City" of Odisha, is witnessing growing concern among its historic filigree artisans as soaring silver prices and increased import duty continue to affect livelihoods tied to the centuries-old Tarakasi craft.

Local silver artisans say the sudden rise in silver costs, especially after the increase in import duty from 5% to 15%, has disrupted orders, delayed production, and pushed many artisan families into financial uncertainty.

Ajay Kumar Dey, a silver and gold artisan whose family has been associated with the craft for generations, said the Tarakasi work has been their family business for nearly 50 years.

He explained that while the government's economic decisions may b...