Initiative to Showcase Cultural Richness of North East Tribal Artisans

Guwahati: The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd. (TRIFED), operating under the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs, has unveiled the highly anticipated Phase 2 of the 'Promotion of Tribal Products for North East Region' (PTP-NER 2.0) scheme. The initiative, scheduled to run from September 21st to November 10th, 2023, aims to once again highlight the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of tribal artisans in the North East Region.

Under the leadership of Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Arjun Munda, the Central Sector Scheme 'Marketing and Logistics Development for Promotion of Tribal Products from North-Eastern Region (PTP-NER)' was inaugurated on April 18, 2023, in Manipur. TRIFED took the initiative to commence the scheme on the same day, focusing on enhancing the livelihood opportunities for the Scheduled Tribes of the North-Eastern Region.

The first phase of the scheme, PTP-NER 1.0, encompassed eight states and involved the concerted efforts of TRIFED, the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), and state administrations. Over the course of April and May 2023, 64 Tribal Artisans Empanelment Melas (TAeM) were conducted, leading to the engagement of 2,526 artisans from 44 different tribes. Among them, 1,056 artisans were empaneled, and 1,465 were selected for training capsules. Impressively, this phase saw the procurement of 3,115 diverse products, including textiles, forest produce, bamboo items, jewelry, pottery, paintings, and more.

In Phase 2, 29 districts will be covered by teams from TRIFED, NEHHDC, and state administration. These teams will embark on a journey across the North East Region, with the dual purpose of fostering the production capacity of tribal artisans through technology and facilitating access to markets through effective marketing and attractive packaging.

The 'Promotion of Tribal Products for North East Region' scheme represents a vital step toward preserving and promoting the cultural richness of the tribal communities in the North East. By providing economic opportunities, training, and market access to these artisans, the initiative not only empowers them but also showcases their unique heritage to both the nation and the world.

This second phase reaffirms TRIFED's commitment to the sustainable development and upliftment of tribal artisans, contributing to the preservation of India's rich cultural diversity.

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