Bamboo, cane work generates jobs in Manipur

Manipur has a rich and unique handicraft tradition and a large number of people in the state have taken up this work to become self-employed.

Today, we meet one such master craftsperson who is doing a good business by making bamboo and cane products and is helping many local artisans earn a living.

44-year-old Lourembam Henthoingamba turned his childhood hobby of bamboo and cane crafting into a profession.

A resident of Uripok Khaidem Leikai in Imphal, he took professional training and formed clusters to start his production.

He owns a firm called "Lifeline Development Organization" at Naoremthong Laishram Leikai and manufactures various bamboo and cane products.

The group is doing a good business with a monthly turnover of Rs. 2-3 lakh. The products are on high demand across India as well as abroad.

"Demand is very high. However we cannot produce in large volumes and some groups have been making for only exhibition purposes. I've been sending samples to other states like Mumbai, Goa, Chennai, Delhi, and in return several orders have come to me. Even an American came and showed me a Chinese sample which I made and sold to him, and I have to deliver more of it," said master craftsperson, Lourenbam Henthoingamba.

Lourembam and his group of artisans make a variety of craft items including flowers, bags, furniture pieces, photo frames and flower vases.

He currently employs over 40 artisans who work at different parts of the valley districts of the state.

There are plans to expand the centre further which will help in providing employment to many more locals.

The artisans, mostly women, are happy to get an opportunity to earn by utilizing their free time.

"Joining this kind of work helps us divert our thinking from the wrong path and such work benefit us and also develops our skills. So, it will help us to lead a happy life," said an artisan, Sophia.

"If we develop this centre and increase the work load, we can also earn hefty income and it will give us more opportunities. If we earn good income, we feel happy and we can tell others that by making such crafts we can earn well. That will make them realize that if we can earn, they can also do it," said another Artisan, Nirmala.

The Northeastern states are known for their expertise in handicraft and these intricately designed products are high on demand.

The available natural resources in the region can be utilized by local artisans to generate a good living.