Handicraft Training & Production Centre for SHGs & Women
During the reporting year, the organisation conducted vocational training courses for SHG members and rural women along with free adult education to 42 women at Wangjing S.K Leikai, PO- Wangjing, Thoubal, Manipur. The VTC programmes include fruit & vegetable preservation, handloom and handicrafts, mushroom farming, candle making, agarbati making etc.
The programme is conducted in collaboration with the local volunteers and educated youths. The condense course was started from 18th February, 2008 and continuing till the reporting year in various rural areas of Manipur. The condense course will provide free education for up to class VIII standard. The candidates who clear the class VIII standard will be given further education to clear the Xth standard through the open schooling. During the reporting year the organization conducted final test for the adult women and found that at least 85% could read & write.
Handicraft training and production for self-help groups and women is a significant initiative that aims to empower women, promote entrepreneurship, preserve traditional crafts, and generate sustainable livelihoods. This approach focuses on providing skill development, business training, and market access to women, enabling them to produce high-quality handicrafts and earn a dignified income.
Here are some key aspects of handicraft training and production for self-help groups and women:
Skill Development: The initiative begins with skill development programs that equip women with the necessary knowledge and techniques to create various handicraft products. Training sessions are conducted by skilled artisans or professionals who teach traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, embroidery, basketry, block printing, jewelry making, and more. The focus is on preserving traditional art forms while incorporating contemporary designs and trends.
Entrepreneurial Training: In addition to skill development, women are provided with entrepreneurial training to enhance their business acumen. They learn about market research, product development, pricing, quality control, branding, marketing, and financial management. This training empowers women to manage their own enterprises, make informed business decisions, and explore market opportunities.
Formation of Self-Help Groups: Women are encouraged to form self-help groups (SHGs) or join existing ones. SHGs promote collective decision-making, mutual support, and resource sharing among women. These groups serve as platforms for collaboration, skill-sharing, and accessing financial services. SHGs also facilitate the pooling of resources to purchase raw materials, invest in equipment, and scale up production.
Access to Finance: Handicraft training and production initiatives often facilitate access to microfinance and credit services for self-help groups and women. This helps women secure initial capital to start or expand their businesses, invest in raw materials, tools, and equipment, and meet other operational expenses. Access to finance empowers women to become self-reliant and grow their enterprises sustainably.
Quality Control and Product Standardization: Emphasis is placed on maintaining high standards of quality in the production of handicrafts. Training programs include sessions on quality control techniques, product standardization, and adherence to specific guidelines or certifications. This ensures that the crafts produced by women meet market requirements, enhancing their marketability and competitiveness.
Market Linkages and Promotion: Handicraft training and production initiatives provide women with market linkages and promotional support. NGOs or supporting organizations establish partnerships with retailers, e-commerce platforms, and exhibitions to showcase and sell the products made by women. Marketing strategies are developed, including online marketing, product packaging, and participation in trade fairs, to create visibility and generate demand for the handicrafts.
Value Addition and Innovation: Women are encouraged to incorporate value addition techniques and innovation in their craft production. This may involve experimenting with new designs, incorporating sustainable materials, adding value through packaging or branding, and exploring niche markets. By fostering creativity and innovation, women can differentiate their products and cater to diverse consumer preferences.
Social and Economic Empowerment: Handicraft training and production initiatives bring about significant social and economic empowerment for women. By earning a livelihood through their craft skills, women gain financial independence, improve their socio-economic status, and contribute to their households and communities. The initiatives also promote gender equality, as women become active participants in decision-making processes and leaders in their respective enterprises.
Handicraft training and production for self-help groups and women harnesses the potential of traditional crafts as a means for sustainable development. It not only preserves cultural heritage but also enables women to generate income, acquire valuable skills, and gain recognition for their artistic abilities. By supporting and promoting these initiatives, societies can empower women, foster entrepreneurship, and create a vibrant and inclusive handicraft sector.