Kokrajhar, Aug. 10: A 90-day primary-level training on eri silk yarn weaving started today on the Weaving Destination campus, Chandrapara Anthaigwlao in Kokrajhar.
The programme has been sponsored and funded by Tribal Co-operative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited (TRIFED) under the ministry of tribal affairs, and implemented by Nedan foundation, a Kokrajhar-based NGO working on the field.
Altogether 50 indigenous women from rural areas and belonging to below poverty line families would be imparted training.
The objective of the training programme is to improve the skill, knowledge and awareness on hand spun weaving of eri silk, said Digambar Narzary, chairperson of Nedan foundation, at the inauguration ceremony held today.
“It would certainly empower the potential trainees on alternative livelihood through eri weaving in the areas. The development of the weaving federation as an alternative source of livelihood may help overcome poverty. Finally, it is expected that this programme would enhance the motivational, leadership and communication skill of the trainees,” he said.
Padmini Brahma, a member of the Nedan Foundation said, “Since rearing of the worm, reeling of the cocoon and weaving eri silk is the traditional skill of the indigenous women in this area, it could be transformed to a source of earning. This will transform the socio-economic condition of the indigenous households and society as a whole.”
A.D. Mishra, regional manager of TRIFED, said the training would help the rural women in the sector. He said a tribal artisan mela would be organised in Kokrajhar after the training in November where the local indigenous artisans from different parts of the Bodo belt and Assam would be invited to showcase their products.
The zonal officer of National Scheduled Tribe Financial Development Corporation, K.N. Brahma, dwelt on various schemes and facilities from banks which can be avail by the self-help groups. Phanin Narzary, chairperson, Child Welfare Committee, Kokrajhar, and representatives of Assam Gramin Vikas Bank, Kokrajhar, were also present on the occasion.
