English Language & Literature — CBSE Class 10 board question

(1) Fascination of glassware has captivated people all over the world for its blending utility, artistry and cultural significance. The invention of glassblowing, a technique that involves inflating molten glass into a bubble with the help of a blowpipe, revolutionized the craft, making glassware more accessible, affordable and versatile. This allowed the mass production of glass vessels. (2) In India, the craze for glassware has made this industry a significant segment of the manufacturing sector which is notably contributing to both — domestic consumption and exports. India's glass industry comprises a diverse range of products such as container glass, flat glass, and fibreglass. As of 2024, the Indian glass industry was valued at approximately ₹ 40,338 crore. The growth is fuelled by increasing sustainability and the rising demand for decorative items. The flat glass segment, essential for the construction and automotive sectors, contributes around 55% of the total industry revenue. Due to rising demand for energy-efficient buildings, toughened glass is extensively employed. It is also used in automotive windows, doors, facades, and shower screens. Actually, it is a type of processed flat glass, made specifically to be stronger and safer than ordinary flat glass, also called tempered glass. In packaging, container glass is used especially for beverages and pharmaceuticals, which makes up around 25% of the market. (3) Firozabad in Uttar Pradesh is the heart of the Indian glass industry and is often referred to as the "City of Glass". Firozabad specializes in decorative glassware, chandeliers, bangles and domestic glass products. More than 400 glassware manufacturing units provide employment to over 1,50,000 workers. Artisans of this place have made it a leading contributor to India's glassware export, preserving tradition while supporting the local economy. (4) The Indian handmade glassware products including artistic and decorative items continue to thrive in the domestic market and in exports. The blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology has made the Indian glass industry distinctive in comparison to global leaders like China and the USA. (5) However, the industry faces many challenges like dependence on imported raw material, energy-intensive manufacturing processes and environmental regulations, but it still holds a vital position in the national economy. In current times, it is focusing on sustainability, as manufacturers are adopting recycled glass or cullet in production in order to reduce energy consumption and carbon emission, as they require lower melting temperatures. Economically, it decreases the cost of raw material and supports circular economy models, making the industry both profitable and environmentally responsible.