Pakyong, September 22 (IPR): A Khada making unit established by the Sui Dhaaga SHG Tailoring Group under the Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM), RDD, Pakyong Block, was jointly inaugurated by Chief Executive Officer, SRLM, Ms Rajani Sharma, and Additional District Collector, Pakyong, Mr Pulkit, at Pachey today.
The unit has been promoted by BDS, Pakyong, and supported through funding under the Gram Panchayat Development Plan by Pachey Samsing GPU.
The initiative is in line with the efforts of SRLM to strengthen Self-Help Groups by promoting livelihood activities, skill development, enterprise development and market linkages, while supporting SHGs in developing sustainable income-generating activities and expanding the reach of their products.
The inaugural event was attended by Chairman, Commerce and Industries Department and Secretary, Sui Dhaaga Tailoring Group, Ms Nim Chiki Sherpa; Officer on Special Duty to MLA, Gnathang-Machong, Mr MB Gurung; Panchayat President, Pachey Samsing GPU, Mr HB Gurung; AD, PRI, Mr Prakash Chettri and Block Project Manager, Pakyong, Mr Rajen Sharma.
The Khadas are locally produced by women members of the SHG, building on their existing tailoring skills and experience while generating additional livelihood opportunities. The initiative promotes eco-friendly and sustainable production at the community level, while supporting the use of locally produced alternatives and strengthening the income-generating activities of the SHG.
During the event, President, Sui Dhaaga Tailoring Group, Ms Anjana Sharma, shared the journey of the group since its establishment and highlighted its tailoring activities. She stated that the Khada-making unit was taken up as an additional activity to utilise the skills of the members and create scope for livelihood generation throughout the year.
Following the inauguration, the delegates visited the Khada-making unit and took an overview of its functioning. They observed the machinery and work area, including the equipment used for designing, printing and preparing the Khadas. The delegates also interacted with the SHG members and learnt about the process involved in making the Khadas.
The discussion also focused on promoting the products and encouraging the use of locally produced alternatives. Various avenues for increasing awareness and expanding their reach were also discussed.
Also present were officials and staff of BDS, Pakyong and members of the Sui Dhaaga SHG Tailoring Group.
Report from DIO Pakyon