MEDP on Traditional Jewellery Crafting for SHGs Concludes in Changlang
Staff Reporter:
Changlang, 06th November 2023: The Micro Enterprise Development Programme (MEDP) focusing on Traditional Jewellery Making for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) reached its successful conclusion in Changlang on Monday. The MEDP, generously sponsored by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), was expertly executed by the Changlang Community Resource Management Society (CCRMS) in partnership with the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM).
This momentous occasion was graced by a distinguished gathering of dignitaries. The event was presided over by Marpe Riba, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Changlang, who led as the Chief Guest. Accompanying him were Kamal Roy, District Development Manager (DDM) from NABARD; Nonju Simai Tithak, District Project Director (DPD) of CCRMS; Sumitra Singha from State Bank of India (SBI); Ram Gopal Singh, Branch Manager of Punjab National Bank (PNB), Changlang; Mithun Boruah, Branch Manager of Axis Bank; Junmen Longri, Block Mission Manager at ArSRLM, along with dedicated trainers and the enthusiastic trainee members of SHGs.
Over the course of a rigorous 15-day training programme, 30 SHGs were immersed in the art of crafting traditional jewellery. They honed their skills in creating exquisite adornments, including Single-piece Glass Bits Necklaces, Layered Necklaces, Chokers, Headgear, Dangles, Bit Earrings, Flower Bouquets made with Corn Leaves, Rings adorned with Bits, and much more. The curriculum extended its scope beyond craftsmanship, delving into effective packaging strategies and market engagement tactics.
Smt. Nonju Tikhak, DPD, CCRMS, warmly welcomed the attendees and elaborated on the successful execution of the training program. She shared how the SHGs were trained not only in crafting but also in producing jewelry of the highest quality and quantity, catering to the growing demand for traditional jewelry within the region. This initiative strategically aims to empower rural women by offering them enhanced income opportunities and fostering self-reliance. The DPD also stressed the transformative potential of skill development, particularly among women entrepreneurs, in contributing to the socio-economic advancement of rural communities.
Kamal Roy, DDM, NABARD, underscored NABARD's pivotal role in promoting both the Farm and Off-Farm Sectors. He encouraged SHG members to embark on entrepreneurial journeys and take advantage of the financial support provided by banks. Roy also shed light on the significance of Geographical Indications (GI) in this context.
Junmen Longri, BMM, ArSRLM, emphasized that SHGs represent not just a vehicle for self-empowerment or women's empowerment but also a means of economic empowerment. She elaborated on the aims and objectives of the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM).
Branch managers from three leading banks, namely SBI, Axis, and PNB, provided insights into the various credit support options available from their respective institutions. They assured the SHG members of their commitment to extending credit support.
During the event, several SHG members proudly displayed their finished jewellery products, showcasing the skills they had acquired during the training. The Chief Guest, ADC Marpe Riba, presented awards to the best trainee with the most outstanding finished work, while another award was given to the most dedicated trainee, aimed at inspiring others to participate wholeheartedly in future programmes.
ADC Marpe Riba emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting traditional jewellery and dresses. He highlighted the role of such training in fostering self-reliance among rural women and SHGs, emphasizing the need to harness abundant natural resources for sustainable development. Riba recognized knowledge as the key to progress in life and underscored the crucial role women play in society. He encouraged SHGs to become entrepreneurs and contribute to family income and society at large.
Harsha Jyoti Das, Accountant at CCRMS, extended a heartfelt vote of thanks, emphasizing the untapped potential within the traditional jewellery sector. He highlighted the vital role that CCRMS plays in extending this training to remote areas, thereby opening up sustainable income avenues for trainees.