In 1981, in a region of agricultural prosperity WWF's work exposed the exploitative and oppressive conditions of women lace artisans numbering 80,000 in the East and West Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh brought to light by a study of Ms. Maria Mies titled 'Housewives produce for world market'. WWF replicated the Chennai world market. WWF replicated the Chennai experiment to facilitate Lace makers with co-operative and a marketing outlet along with access to credit. Later on WWF brought into its fold rope makers and weavers in the adjacent districts who were equally exploited and lived in intense poverty.

While Forum could bring an organisation of producers among these artisans still a comprehensive marketing effort for these producers is needed through a marketing network with a proper linkage to outside markets. Today this region covers 87850 members in 809 villages.