Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 24: The C.D. Block, Prothrapur under the Directorate of RD, PRIs & ULBs, A&N Administration, organized a training programme on handicraft making using bamboo and waste materials for members of NRLM Self Help Groups (SHGs) at Gram Panchayat Shyam Nagar, Swaraj Dweep.
The training commenced on Oct. 13 and successfully concluded on Oct. 22, with 26 SHG members from Gram Panchayat Shyam Nagar participating. The programme was organized in response to the demand from local SHG members interested in creating and selling handicraft products to enhance their livelihood opportunities. Given that Swaraj Dweep is a prominent tourist destination in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, there exists substantial potential for marketing SHG-produced handicrafts.
A valedictory programme was held on 23rd October 2025, graced by Smti. Gurjeet Kaur, Block Development Officer, Prothrapur; Shri Alok Kumar, Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Shyam Nagar; and officials from the Block and Panchayat Offices. During the event, participants showcased the handicraft items created during the training, followed by the distribution of certificates to all participants.
The Block Development Officer encouraged SHG members to continue producing more handicraft items and to actively participate in the forthcoming SARAS Mela at Sri Vijaya Puram. The Pradhan assured the SHG members of support in providing dedicated spaces at tourist locations for marketing their handicraft products.
