Rohit Kumar
Sri Vijaya Puram, 27 May 2025
In a concerted effort to preserve cultural heritage and revive traditional craftsmanship, a 10-day Vocational Skill Development Training Programme on Traditional Nicobari Handicrafts has been launched across all five Tribal Councils — Kamorta, Nancowry, Katchal, Teressa, and Chowra Islands — under the Nancowry Block of Nicobar District.
The initiative is being jointly implemented by the District Administration, Nicobar and the Directorate of Rural Development, PRIs & ULBs, A&N Administration, through the Community Development Block, Nancowry, as part of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM).
The programme was launched under the guidance of Mr. Amit Kale, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Nicobar District. Formal inauguration ceremonies were held at Kamorta and Nancowry Islands, where Mr. Aditya Sangotra, Assistant Commissioner, Nancowry lit the traditional lamp to mark the commencement. He was joined by Mr. Charles Jacob, CTC, Kamorta, Ms. Aysha Majid, CTC, Nancowry, Mr. Mohammed Yunus M, Block Development Officer, and Lt. Cdr. Shanu Mathew, Executive Officer (EXO), INS Kardip, as guests of honour.
In his address, Mr. Sangotra urged participants to actively engage in preserving and nurturing the rich cultural traditions of the Nicobarese community. He emphasized the importance of passing down these rapidly fading skills to younger generations, and noted that the training offers a unique opportunity for youth to learn directly from their elders.
Tribal Council leaders from Kamorta and Nancowry praised the administration for initiating the programme and expressed hope that such efforts would continue regularly to strengthen cultural continuity.
Targeted primarily at members of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and young artisans, the training aims to equip participants with hands-on skills in traditional Nicobari handicrafts, thereby fostering economic empowerment while safeguarding indigenous artistry.
Earlier in the programme, Mr. Mohammed Yunus M, Block Development Officer, delivered the welcome address outlining the broader goals of the initiative. The inaugural event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Aslam Majid, First Captain of Kamorta.
Similar inauguration ceremonies were held at Katchal and Teressa Islands, presided over by the respective Tribal Council Chairpersons and SROs/ASROs, underscoring the block-wide commitment to cultural preservation and rural skill development. (Story Based on PR)