Nancowry, May 26: In a significant step towards preserving cultural heritage and reviving traditional craftsmanship, a 10-days Vocational Skill Development Training Programme on Traditional Nicobari Handicrafts has been launched across all five Tribal Councils viz. Kamorta, Nancowry, Katchal, Teressa and Chowra Islands under the Nancowry Block in Nicobar District. The programme is a collaborative effort of the District Administration, Nicobar and the Directorate of RD, PRIs & ULBs, A&N Administration, being conducted by the Community Development Block, Nancowry as part of implementation of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM).
Under the guidance of Shri Amit Kale, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Nicobar District, the events at Kamorta and Nancowry Islands were formally inaugurated by Shri Aditya Sangotra, Assistant Commissioner, Nancowry with the traditional lighting of lamp, joined by Shri Charles Jacob, CTC, Kamorta, Smti Aysha Majid, CTC, Nancowry, Shri Mohammed Yunus M, Block Development Officer and Lt. Cdr. Shanu Mathew, Executive Officer (EXO) of INS Kardip, as guests of honor.
In his inaugural address, the Assistant Commissioner of Nancowry urged the participants to preserve and nurture the rich traditional heritage of their community. Highlighting the urgency of preserving these fading skills, he noted that the training programme offers a vital opportunity for the youth to learn directly from their elders.
Speaking on the occasion, the CTC, Kamorta and Nancowry lauded the efforts of the Administration and requested that such programmes be conducted on a regular basis.
The training programme is designed to revive and promote the time-honoured craftsmanship of the Nicobarese community amongst the Self Help Group (SHG) members and younger generations to equip necessary skills on the Traditional Nicobari Handicraft.
Earlier, Shri Mohammed Yunus M, Block Development Officer, in his welcome address, outlined the broader objectives of the training programme. The inaugural programme concluded with vote of thanks by Shri Aslam Majid, First Captain of Kamorta. Similar inaugural programme were held in other Islands viz. Katchal and Teressa, presided over by the respective Chairperson, Tribal Councils and SROs/ASROs.