Two-day workshop on hadicraft begins

Jamshedpur, Apr 17 (UNI) In a bid to give an impetus to the rural economy of Jharkhand by creating a new avenue for rural employment by using the state's vast natural resources under the government -sponsored schemes, the ministry of environment and the forest department with an NGO have organised a two-day workshop on handicraft.

Inaugurating the workshop here today ,principle conservetor of forest C R Sahay said since the state had huge bamboo plantation in the districts of Latehar, Palamu, Chatra and East Singhbhum bamboo craft under 'Babasaheb Ambedkar Hastashilp Yojna' could be the instrument for sustainable economic development in the rural areas.

Mr Sahay said ''We are going to introduce a compact and viable scheme and urged the centre to allot a grant of Rs 60 lakhs under the BAHY.'' He said an extensive marketing of the handicraft products and training of the members of the Joint Forest Management Commitee (JFMC) would help flourshing handicraft and also boost the rural economy.

Regional conservator of forest A K Guota also echoed the same view and hoped the workshop would assist the artisans to develop their skill.

The organisers also invited NABARD and Development commissioner, to enlighten the artisans on the issues of training (Guru Shiksha Parampara under Master Craftsmen) for Design Development and Resources Development through formation of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and linkage with financial institutions(Nationanlised Banks).

The workshop was being organsed by the regional centre,National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board (NAEB),Ministry of Enviornment and Forests,Government of India,Jadavpur University in association with Department of Forest,Jharkhand and a local NGO Kalamandir.

UNI