Tata's 'Okhai' starts first outlet in Ahmedabad

Group's CSR initiative promotes handicrafts of rural women

This is a part of the CSR activity carried by Tata group wherein rural women in Okhamandal region in Gujarat have joined hands to form a self-help group (SHG) to promote traditional handicraft of the region and earn a livelihood.

"Okhai has not only helped rural women earn a better livelihood but also spread awareness about the traditional craft of the region. We will observe the performance of this first outlet for about a year before opening another one," said Alka Talwar, Head Community Development, Tata Chemicals Ltd. Currently about 450 women are part of this initiative.

The custom of producing traditional handicraft for ceremonial functions is widely prevalent among tribes dwelling in the region including the Ahirs, the Rabari, the Charan and communities like Lohana and Harijan.
Mirror work, patchwork, embroidery and appliqu