Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 9: A Guru–Shisya Hastshilp Prashikshyan Programme (GSHPP), sponsored by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, was inaugurated this morning at the Forest Club Hall, Haddo.
The training programme is being implemented by the Handicrafts Service Centre, Sri Vijaya Puram.
The inaugural programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from 30 selected women handicraft artisans, marking a significant step towards skill development, women empowerment, and livelihood enhancement in the handicrafts sector.
The programme was chaired by Shri T. Vijay, IIS, Media & Communication Officer, Press Information Bureau (PIB), who attended as the Chief Guest. Also present on the occasion were Shri K. Kumaravel, Assistant Director, Handicrafts Service Centre, Sri Vijaya Puram, and the President of Kurundham Helping Hand NGO.
The programme began with a welcome address by Smt. Kamala, Master Craftsperson, who warmly welcomed the dignitaries and participants.
Addressing the trainees, Shri K. Kumaravel encouraged the artisans to actively engage in the training and make full use of the opportunity to learn Coir Handicrafts. He assured that all required raw materials for the training would be provided by the Handicrafts Service Centre.
In his address, Shri T. Vijay, IIS, motivated the participants to enhance their skills and use the training as a means to improve their economic self-reliance. He highlighted that the Government of India has introduced several schemes to strengthen Self Help Groups and support women artisans across the country.
He further advised the trainees to register under MSME and the Coir Board after completion of the training, which would enable them to access various government schemes, financial assistance, and market opportunities to strengthen their livelihoods.
The Guru–Shisya Hastship Prashikshyan Programme aims to preserve traditional crafts while empowering women artisans through structured skill development, contributing to sustainable employment and inclusive growth in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.