Sri Vijaya Puram | January 09, 2026
A Guru–Shishya Hastshilp Prashikshyan Programme (GSHPP), sponsored by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, was inaugurated today at the Forest Club Hall, Haddo, with the objective of promoting skill development and livelihood opportunities in the handicrafts sector.
The training programme is being implemented by the Handicrafts Service Centre, Sri Vijaya Puram, and has enrolled 30 selected women handicraft artisans. The initiative marks a significant step towards women empowerment, preservation of traditional crafts and enhancement of sustainable income generation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The inaugural function was chaired by Mr. T. Vijay, IIS, Media & Communication Officer, Press Information Bureau (PIB), who attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Mr. K. Kumaravel, Assistant Director, Handicrafts Service Centre, Sri Vijaya Puram, and the President of Kurundham Helping Hand NGO were also present on the occasion.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Ms. Kamala, Master Craftsperson, who extended greetings to the dignitaries and participants. Addressing the trainees, Mr. K. Kumaravel urged the artisans to actively participate in the training sessions and make optimum use of the opportunity to learn coir handicrafts. He assured that all necessary raw materials required for the training would be provided by the Handicrafts Service Centre.
In his address, Mr. T. Vijay encouraged the participants to strengthen their skills and utilize the training to achieve economic self-reliance. He highlighted various initiatives of the Government of India aimed at strengthening Self Help Groups and supporting women artisans. He further advised the trainees to register under MSME and the Coir Board after completing the training to avail government schemes, financial assistance and improved market access.
The Guru–Shishya Hastshilp Prashikshyan Programme aims to preserve traditional craftsmanship while empowering women artisans through structured skill development, thereby contributing to inclusive growth and sustainable employment in the Islands.
