Guwahati, July 11: Sixty-two traditional weavers from two villages in Assam’s Udalguri district have completed an intensive skill enhancement programme aimed at improving product quality, expanding market opportunities and strengthening sustainable livelihoods through advanced Jacquard weaving techniques.
The 15-day Product Development Training Programme (PDTP), held from June 17 to July 3 under the THREAD Project, was attended by 31 artisans each from Simoluguri and Merbangchuba villages in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) area. The THREAD Project is being implemented through a collaborative partnership and is co-funded by the European Union.
The training equipped artisans with practical skills in Jacquard machine operation, pattern development, design creation and product diversification, while placing equal emphasis on preserving the cultural identity and traditional craftsmanship of indigenous weaving.
Through a combination of classroom sessions and extensive hands-on demonstrations, participants learnt Jacquard mechanisms, punch card operation, intricate motif development, improved weaving techniques and quality finishing standards required for contemporary markets.
The programme also encouraged artisans to experiment with new designs, colour palettes and product concepts. Under the guidance of technical experts, participants developed innovative Jacquard patterns and gained confidence in producing value-added handloom products with greater commercial appeal.
To help sustain the momentum after the training, each participant received three kilograms of yarn, enabling them to apply their newly acquired skills, develop new product lines and strengthen their handloom-based livelihoods.
Valedictory ceremonies were held separately at Simoluguri and Merbangchuba villages, where all 62 participants were awarded certificates recognising the successful completion of the programme.
The Simoluguri event was graced by National Award-winning weaver Kamal Das, who urged artisans to safeguard Assam’s rich weaving heritage while embracing innovation, maintaining high quality standards and exploring emerging market opportunities. Her interaction with the participants served as a source of inspiration and encouragement.
The programme was implemented under the overall leadership of Manas Kumar Bhattacharjya, Assistant Director of Aaranyak’s Conservation and Livelihood Division (CLD). Dr Deba Kumar Dutta, Deputy Director of Aaranyak’s Rhino Research and Conservation Division (RRCD), provided key institutional support for the initiative.
The technical team comprised Anjima Daimari, Community Development Expert, who coordinated the programme; Master Trainer Nandeshwar Deka, who led the practical Jacquard weaving sessions; Textile Expert Arjun Hazarika; and Junior Designer Darshana Boro, who provided technical and design inputs throughout the training.
The valedictory function at Merbangchuba was also attended by Forest Department officials, including Kameshwar Boro, Deputy Range Officer and Beat Officer of Paneri under Nunai Range, and Durga Basumatary, Forester-I of Santipur Beat, who appreciated the initiative and encouraged the artisans to use their enhanced skills to improve their livelihoods.
By integrating traditional weaving knowledge with modern Jacquard technology, the training has strengthened the capacities of local artisans, fostered design innovation and enhanced prospects for improved product quality and market access. The initiative is expected to contribute to the long-term economic resilience of weaving communities while advancing cultural preservation, community empowerment and conservation-linked livelihood development in the region.
