'Okahi' opens retail outlet in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, July 4 (UNI) ''Okhai'', an initiative created and promoted by Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development (TCSRD) with the aim of generating employment in rural areas, opened its first retail outlet here today.

Tata Chemicals Head Community Development Alka Talwar told reporters that the initiative is aimed at providing a platform to products of rural craftsmanship in growing cities like Ahmedabad.

She said TCSRD has formed Self Help Groups in the villages of Okhamandal in Saurashtra region of Gujarat for making handicrafts, thus generating livelihood for women. These handicrafts are promoted under the brand name ''Okhai''.

Ms Talwar informed that the initiative has completed eight years and handicraft exhibitions have been held acroos the country. Over Rs 25 lakh worth of handicrafts were sold in exhibitions last year, she informed.

''With Okhai, we have succeeded in making a remarkable difference in the lives of rural women,'' Ms Talwar stressed.

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