The magical properties of the coir have not been used to its full potential. The main reason is lack of awareness on the subject. Since there are not many takers for the craft, the endeavour has been to educate future entrepreneurs on the prospects of the coir industry.
This is one among a several interesting sessions that are in store for about 35 entrepreneurs who have been enrolled in the 45-day Women Entrepreneurship Development Programme (WEDP), which started on November 18. The programme has been jointly initiated by Association of Lady Entrepreneurs Andhra Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation in the city.
Growth prospects
Facilitating interactive sessions and field trips, extending support to procure bank loans, introducing them to need-based technicalities and helping them build smart marketing strategies, WEDP is providing a platform for prospective entrepreneurs to expand the ability to think creatively and build confidence.
As part of the programme, the trainees were taught on the growth prospects of coir industry that include vanity products such as jewellery, sandals and handbags besides kitchen garden and the mattresses. “We can bring artisans from Odisha to train people in various coir handicrafts and provide an avenue to sell their wares in any of our 30 branches spread across the country,” manager in-charge of Coir Board S. Venkataraman said.
Most women were drawn towards the kitchen garden concept while some expressed their fascination for coir jewellery. “We never knew that jewellery can be designed out of coir. The programme gives us a clear picture about how to perceive an idea and add value to our objectives,” says S. Alekhya, one of the participants.
“Our efficiency to manage our home inspires us to contribute to society too. I think, women are good at multi-tasking and are capable to balance work-life exceptionally well. Unfortunately, with the present economic slowdown, many are not able to find appropriate jobs. In such scenario, entrepreneurship comes as a boon,” says L. Aruna, a homemaker.
If sustainability happens to be the focus for most entrepreneurs who were part of the workshop, a few also expressed their desire to provide employment opportunity for others through their expertise. With the Industrial Park coming up at Islampeta they stand a chance of getting land to set up a unit based on the submission of viable detailed project reports. For those who want to join the next batch of WEDP, which is scheduled next year, ALEAP local coordinator can be contacted on 9247839834.
