Guwahati: Assam-based organization Aaranyak, renowned for its commitment to biodiversity conservation and the welfare of forest fringe communities, has launched a tailoring school for indigenous women and young girls residing in the fringe villages surrounding India’s Manas Tiger Reserve.
The primary objective of this initiative is to impart fundamental training in measurement, cutting, and stitching to the participants, enabling them to acquire tailoring skills. This skill development aims to offer alternative livelihood opportunities, reducing their reliance on forest resources while simultaneously contributing to conservation efforts.
The inauguration of the tailoring school took place on March 12 at the Manas Conservation and Outreach Centre, Bhuyapara, Baksa, the organization’s base in Manas. The event was attended by 23 trainees from Bhuyapara, Bamunkhal, and Kumguri villages, located in proximity to the Manas Tiger Reserve, along with master trainer Pakhila Das.
The program commenced with a ceremonial lamp lighting by Pakhila Das, followed by an overview of the objectives of the tailoring school provided to the trainees. Participants were then encouraged to discuss their specific interests in tailoring and guiding the curriculum accordingly. The session concluded with the division of trainees into four groups, scheduled to attend classes thrice a week.
In a press statement, Aaranyak highlighted the significance of empowering fringe women through tailoring training, emphasizing its economic empowerment aspect. The organization expressed its belief that by equipping women with skills, they become integral stakeholders in sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and community involvement.
This initiative is part of the larger IUCN-KFW supported project titled “Securing population of tigers, habitats and biological corridors in Assam, India,” currently underway in the Manas Landscape of Baksa District.
The Aaranyak team, including Dr. Partha Sarathi Ghose, Binita Baruwati, Swapan Kumar Das, Pankaj Das, Stephen Basumatary, Barnali Chakraborty, and Dhananjay Mochahary, played pivotal roles in the implementation of this endeavor.
Aaranyak’s commitment to holistic community development and biodiversity conservation is evident in this initiative, which strives to empower indigenous women while promoting sustainable livelihood practices in the region.
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