| ICAR-Central Institute for Women in Agriculture (ICAR-CIWA), Bhubaneswar organized a 3-days Capacity Building Programme from 16th to 18th July 2025 for the members of Shakti Sankalp Mahila Sangh under the Custom Hiring Centre (CHC) established at Sarangadhar Sahoo Patna village, Balipatna block, Khordha district. This initiative is a part of ICAR-CIWA’s ongoing efforts to promote gender-inclusive and eco-friendly-based enterprises. Recognizing the potential of sustainable packaging alternatives and the role of women in agri-based rural enterprises, the institute had facilitated the establishment of a Custom Hiring Centre for the production of eco-friendly, thread-based packaging materials. As part of this support, ten electric sewing machines were provided to the women’s collective – Shakti Sankalp Mahila Sangh – to equip them with the necessary infrastructure for initiating production-based activities and enhancing their income-generating capabilities. The 3-day training programme was meticulously designed to strengthen the technical skills of the participating women in- Operating electric sewing machines, cutting and stitching reusable cotton bags, basic maintenance of sewing equipment, understanding the market potential of sustainable packaging and entrepreneurial and group management skills. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Ankita Sahu, Scientist, ICAR-CIWA. The training comprised of hands-on sessions and demonstrations tailored to the learning needs of rural women. The training aimed to empower the group to become self-reliant in producing sustainable packaging alternatives, such as cloth bags, to replace single-use plastics in local markets. |
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