EPCH launches CSUP at Lasingphee Craft
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 26 2024: The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) has officially launched a Comprehensive Skill Upgradation Programme (CSUP) at Lasingphee Craft in Haoreibi, Imphal West.

This five-month initiative, supported by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, falls under the National Handicrafts Development Program (NHDP) - Skill Development in Handicraft Sector (SDHS) scheme for the financial year 2024-25.The programme is designed to enhance the skills of local artisans, empowering them to refine their craft and broaden their market opportunities.

The inaugural function held at the premises of Lashingphee Craft was graced by N Nimbus Singh, Chairman, Manipur Khadi & Village Industries Board, Government of Manipur; Mutum Sanjeev Kumar Singh, Senior Assistant Director (Handicrafts), Handicrafts Service Centre, Imphal; Th Basanta Singh, Deputy Director, Directorate of Handloom & Textiles, Government of Manipur; L Dashumati Devi, Project Manager, Directorate of Handloom & Textiles and Mutua Bahadur, director, Mutua Museum, Imphal as presidium members.

Speaking on the occasion, N Nimbus Singh highlighted the crucial role of skill development in safeguarding Manipur's cultural heritage.

He also commended EPCH for its efforts in connecting traditional craftsmanship with the demands of today's markets.

Mutum Sanjeev Kumar Singh and Th Basanta Singh underscored the importance of the CSUP in promoting local crafts in both the national and international stage.

They also encouraged the artisans to make the most of the training to enhance their skills and improve their livelihoods.

Mutua Bahadur stressed on the essential role of cultural preservation in maintaining the unique identity of Manipur's diverse communities.

He praised the CSUP initiative as a pivotal step in empowering artisans and promoting the region's rich cultural heritage.

Maibam Surjamala Devi, Designer EPCH, Imphal also attended the event and elaborated on the various activities of EPCH in the North Eastern Region (NER) .

She highlighted EPCH's ongoing efforts to support and promote the rich, handicraft traditions of the region, ensuring that local artisans have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

State Awardee O Shyama Devi (MCP) and S Ajanta Devi (empanelled designer) also took part in the programme along with 30 trainees/artisans from the region.

Notably, the CSUP is part of EPCH's ongoing mission to advance and support India's handicrafts sector.

By participating in this programme, artisans will acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a competitive marketplace while ensuring that traditional crafts continue to flourish for future generations.

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