Phase 2 of 'Promotion of Tribal Products for North East Region' to be launched tomorrow

This initiative aims to further empower tribal artisans and showcase their rich cultural heritage not only within the nation but on the global stage, read the Ministry of Tribal Affairs press release.

The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED), under the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs, will launch Phase 2 of the 'Promotion of Tribal Products for North East Region' (PTP-NER 2.0) scheme tomorrow. This initiative aims to further empower tribal artisans and showcase their rich cultural heritage not only within the nation but on the global stage, read the Ministry of Tribal Affairs press release.

During the inaugural phase, known as PTP-NER 1.0, TRIFED, in collaboration with the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC) and State Administration teams, made significant strides. The program covered eight states and reached 38 districts, bringing together teams to engage with tribal artisans. A total of 64 Tribal Artisans Empanelment Melas (TAeM) were conducted in April-May 2023, read the press release.

This initial phase resulted in an impressive outreach to 2,526 artisans representing 44 tribes. Out of this, 1,056 artisans were empanelled, and 1,465 individuals were identified for training capsules. Furthermore, the program procured over 3,115 tribal products encompassing textiles, forest produce, bamboo items, jewellery, pottery, paintings, and more, read the release.

The second phase, PTP-NER 2.0 from September 21 to November 10, is poised to continue this transformative journey. It will encompass 29 districts with dedicated teams from TRIFED, NEHHDC (Union Ministry of DoNER), and State Administration. These teams will traverse the Northeast region to reconnect with tribal artisans and provide them with a platform to exhibit their cultural heritage.

The scheme, 'Marketing and Logistics Development for Promotion of Tribal Products from North-Eastern Region,' was inaugurated on April 18, 2023, by Arjun Munda, the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, read the press release. Its primary objective is to enhance livelihood opportunities for tribal artisans by boosting their production capacity through technology adoption and facilitating access to markets through effective marketing and appealing packaging.

This concerted effort by TRIFED continues to empower tribal communities across the Northeast, offering them opportunities to not only sustain their traditional crafts but also thrive in an evolving market landscape. (ANI)