NABARD Unveils MEDP for Traditional Jewelry Crafting in Changlang
Changlang, 06th September 2023: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has officially launched the Micro Enterprise Development Programme (MEDP) tailored for Traditional Jewelry Making. This groundbreaking initiative will be executed by the PIA, Changlang Community Resource Management Society (CCRMS) in collaboration with the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM).
The ceremonial inauguration of this transformative training programme took place on Wednesday, 06th September 2023, marking a significant stride in the realm of rural skill development and economic prosperity. The MEDP aspires to empower and enlighten 30 members hailing from diverse SHGs within the Changlang block with the ancient craft of fashioning unique traditional jewelry indigenous to Arunachal Pradesh. These exquisite creations encompass a spectrum of traditional adornments, including Single-piece Glass Bits Necklace, Layered Necklaces, Chokers, Headgear, Dangles, Bit Earrings, Flower Bouquets with Corn Leaves, Rings with Bits, and more. The curriculum extends its purview beyond mere craftsmanship, delving into effective packaging strategies and market engagement tactics.
Distinguished dignitaries graced the occasion with their esteemed presence. Marpe Riba, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Changlang presided as the Chief Guest, and accompanying him were Kamal Roy, DDM, NABARD; Nonju Simai Tithak, DPD CCRMS; Binod Kr. Yadav, LDM, SBI; Ram Gopal Singh, Branch Manager at PNB, Changlang; Junmen Longri, Block Mission Manager at ArSRLM; the proficient master trainer, Smt. Chanam Lowang; and the dedicated SHG members. Their collective participation epitomizes the confluence of expertise and determination.
In her welcoming address, Smt. Nonju Tikhak, DPD, CCRMS, underscored the pivotal role of this program in elevating production quality and quantity to meet the burgeoning demand for traditional jewelry within the region. This endeavour strategically aims to uplift rural women by providing them with enhanced income opportunities and fostering self-reliance. The DPD also emphasized the transformative potential of skill development, particularly among women entrepreneurs, in contributing to the socio-economic advancement of rural communities.
Shri Kamal Roy, DDM, NABARD, highlighted NABARD's pivotal role in promoting both the Farm and Off-Farm Sectors. He encouraged SHG members to embark on entrepreneurial journeys and avail themselves of the financial support provided by banks. Roy also shed light on the significance of Geographical Indications (GI) in this context.
Smt. 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 stressed the importance of sincere dedication to the training provided, emphasizing that while they can be taught how to catch a fish, it is ultimately up to the SHGs to reel in their success.
Shri Binod Kumar Yadav, LDM, SBI, offered insights into the history and movement of SHGs in India. He emphasized the importance of meticulous bookkeeping by SHGs to facilitate banks' assessment of loan proposals at later stages. Shri Yadav also highlighted the significance of unity and camaraderie among SHG members, advising them to approach the MEDP training programme with honesty and discipline.
Shri Ram Gopal Singh, Branch Manager at Punjab National Bank, Changlang, shared that their bank branch has been operational in Changlang since October 2022. He extended a warm invitation to SHGs to open accounts at their branch and assured them of credit support.
Master trainer Smt. Chanam Lowang shared her remarkable journey from being an SHG member to becoming a master trainer. She attributed her transformation to her skill, which has enabled her to participate in various exhibitions, including those in Delhi and RGU. She recently represented her craft at the C20 summit in Namsai. Smt. Lowang emphasized the significant potential for promoting local jewelry and encouraged SHGs to excel in their learning endeavours to secure better futures.
ADC Marpe Riba emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting traditional dresses. He underscored the role of such training in fostering self-reliance among rural women and SHGs, stressing the need to harness abundant natural resources for sustainable development. He recognized knowledge as the key to progress in life and highlighted the crucial role women play in society. Riba encouraged SHGs to actively participate in the training and showcase their newfound skills, which contribute to family income and society at large.
The vote of thanks was extended by Shri Harsha Jyoti Saikia, Accountant at CCRMS, who emphasized the untapped potential within the traditional jewelry sector. He highlighted the vital role that CCRMS plays in extending this training to remote areas, thus opening up sustainable income avenues for trainees.