Project NAVYA Begins Tapestry Weaving Training at Raidighi Centre

On 15th May 2026, the tapestry weaving training under Project NAVYA supported by Unity Small Finance Bank was formally inaugurated at the Raidighi Centre, marking the beginning of an important livelihood initiative focused on empowering women in the Sundarbans through skill development and sustainable handicraft production. The launch of the training programme represents a significant step towards creating climate-resilient and community- based livelihood opportunities for economically vulnerable women in the region.

 

Project NAVYA has been envisioned as a women-led enterprise model designed to strengthen socio-economic resilience through tapestry weaving, recycled textile craft production, and collective entrepreneurship. The initiative aims to create sustainable income-generation opportunities by building local production capacities and promoting decentralized, community-driven enterprise development under a hub-and-spoke production structure.

 

The first day of the training introduced participants to the vision,objectives, and implementation framework of the project. Beneficiaries were familiarized with the fundamentals of tapestry weaving through practical demonstrations conducted by the trainer. The session covered essential aspects such as loom preparation, thread setting, weaving techniques, handling of raw materials, and the proper use of weaving tools. Participants were also guided on maintaining quality craftsmanship, an important component in developing market-ready handmade textile products. A key highlight of the training was its strong focus on sustainability and environmentally responsible production practices. Participants learned how discarded textiles and fabric waste can be creatively repurposed into value-added tapestry products, promoting both waste reduction and sustainable craft-based livelihoods. The session emphasized the integration of traditional weaving skills with innovative and market-oriented product development approaches.

 

The training further introduced participants to the larger vision of forming women-led production groups linked with existing Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Through this model, women will gradually transition from skill training to decentralized production activities within their own communities, enabling collective income generation and long-term economic independence. The commencement of the tapestry weaving training at Raidighi,marks an important milestone in the implementation of Project NAVYA. By combining skill development, sustainable production practices, and women-led enterprise creation, the initiative aims to build lasting livelihood opportunities and strengthen the economic empowerment of women across the Sundarbans region.

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