Screw Pine Processing and Training Centre has been launched at Kuttanad, Kerala in loving memory of the late C. K. Sali, the founder President of Kottayam Jilla Tazhappaya Vikasana Federal Samiti.
Ms C. K. Asha, MLA, Vaikom inaugurated the function held at Vechoor, Kottayam in presence of Mr Shylakumar, President of the Vechoor Gramapanchayath.
This skill training and livelihood initiative for women artisans is very unique and the innovative pre-fab building is also a great design for the region said, Ms Asha.
The community partner for the initiative is Kottayam Jilla Mahila Thazhappaya Vikasana Federal Samithi, an apex body of 6 Primary societies with a total membership of around 10,000 women who are engaged in screw pine craftwork in the region. The partner has also started a month’s Design & Technical Development Workshop under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
Dr K. S. Murali, Dr N. Anil Kumar, Dr V. Shakeela from M S Swaminathan Research Foundation gave their messages to the initiative.
Elected Local Self Government representatives of the region, representatives from District Industries Centre, K-DISC, and HDFC Bank felicitated the occasion.
Programme Background
The screw pine plants grow wild on the banks of rivers, canals, ponds and backwaters of Kerala and also serve as a natural fence. Screw pine craft is a traditional cottage industry in Kerala. The weaving of mats with treated screw pine leaf is one of the oldest crafts practised by women in Kerala for more than 800 years. It was started as an empowerment tool for women but later became highly popular due to its eco-friendly form of practice. Screw pine craft of Kerala has been granted GI registration in respect of mats, doormats, wall hangings, bed mats, and prayer mats.