Ghansoli: Aarine Foundation, with the sponsorship of the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, successfully organized the ‘Guru-Shishya Craft Training Program’ at Ghansoli Gaon, Navi Mumbai.

The program was inaugurated by Prabhakaran, Regional Director (Western Region) of the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts). The training program, which lasted two months, concluded successfully in April.

The primary objective of the programme was to preserve and promote India’s traditional and endangered handicraft arts. Through this initiative, 30 women hand embroidery artisans received 50 days of intensive training, learning traditional embroidery techniques while also being introduced to modern designs and market demands. During the training, the participants showcased their skills by creating beautiful embroidered bed sheets, pillow covers, handkerchiefs, frocks, shirts, cotton bags, and sarees.

To further support the artisans, Aarine Foundation provided financial assistance of Rs 15,000 to each woman to help them start their own businesses. Additionally, arrangements were made to offer free stalls at various locations, enabling the artisans to sell their products directly and become self-reliant.

An important aspect of the programme was also to honour and recognize the invaluable contribution of master artisans, thereby reinstating the importance of handicrafts in society. This initiative not only promoted the revival of traditional art forms but also created new livelihood opportunities in rural and semi-urban areas.