This artisan group, based in Northwest India, focuses on women from communities that were displaced from their ancestral villages to create a national park. Villagers lost all their farm lands and other means of livelihood. The effort offers skill-building and employment opportunities. The artisan group was formed by the help of a foundation, to set up an income-generating project, using the talents of the displaced villagers, especially with a focus on empowering women. The displaced community prevailed with their hard work, perseverance and some donations; gradually becoming an independent enterprise, registered under the Indian society act.
Sustainability & Fair Trade
Hand block printed
Unbleached, unprocessed (kora) cotton fabric
Eco-friendly, low impact Azo-free dyes
Reusable: machine-washable
Fair, steady income
Employing indigenous women artisans
Artisan representation on board
Workshops on legal aid, health, family planning, gender, team work and accounting offered
Provident funds provided for retired members
Artisans receive professional skills training to develop handmade goods that are saleable in a contemporary market. Coming together as a community helps changes in attitude and mind-sets towards traditional customs like caste, marriage and the purdah (veil.) Women artisans benefit from the community fund set up for women, by receiving instant loans and being educated on the benefits of saving.
