Bamboo items at Jharcraft in Ranchi on Sunday. Picture by Hardeep Singh

Ranchi, July 3: The dying bamboo craft is set to get a fresh lease of life with Jharcraft hosting a training programme for 20 skilled craftsmen from tribal pockets of Chakulia and Dumka.

The 15-day extensive training session will start at Rukka’s Krishi Gram Vikas Kendra from July 24. Tips will be imparted by experts from the research and design wing of Bangalore-based National Institute of Design.

The aim is to make the artisans more proficient in their work and educate them about latest technology that can be used to produce the finest of designs.

“It is an attempt to revive the dying bamboo craft that is fast losing its sheen due to lack of promotion. We are roping in designers from reputable institutes, who will help the craftsmen polish their art,” said Dhirendra Kumar, managing director of Jharcraft.

He added that the state’s handloom and handicraft corporation would do whatever it takes to popularise the humble art, which has been used by the poor since ages to design portable bamboo furniture. The 20 tribals, once trained, were expected to return and pass on the skills acquired to others.

“Bamboo furniture are light in weight, extremely portable and are of greater convenience to customers,” Kumar said.

The managing director added that they were also eyeing a chunk of the international market. “Jharcraft items are usually in huge demand in European countries and hence, we have decided to export our products,” Kumar said.

He further said Jharcraft signed an MoU with Assam-based Cane and Bamboo Technology Centre last month to promote cane and bamboo products. “We sincerely believe that the agreement will help us use bamboo to make new products and generate employment in the rural pockets,” Kumar said.

He added that Jharcraft would also open a 10,000sqft showroom shortly