THE INITIATIVE

• Encouraging traditional weaving among SHG members

THE BENEFICIARIES

• SHG members of Bishnupur district, Manipur

THE CHALLENGE

• Inefficacious traditional looms that required more manpower
• Lack of adequate designs
• Waning interest in this traditional activity

THE SOLUTION

• NABARD granted assistance to the Unique Manipuri Women Association for assisting 30 SHGs
• An innovative and modified Manipuri shuttle power loom was promoted among women weavers. The loom, installed at a Common Facility Centre at Keinour village, was financed by Manipur Rural Bank
• Capacity-building support was ensured for development of design elements and marketing

THE IMPACT

• Speedy production and new designs
• Reduction in manpower requirement
• Increased income for weavers