The National Jute Board has launched a Jute Bag Making Training Programme in Kodaikanal as part of its initiative to promote women entrepreneurship and encourage the use of environmentally friendly products. The programme aims to equip women with practical skills that can help them start small businesses and generate sustainable sources of income.
The inaugural function was held at JC Residency in Kodaikanal and witnessed enthusiastic participation from women, aspiring entrepreneurs, and representatives from various organizations. The event highlighted the increasing importance of jute products as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic and emphasized the role of skill development in creating employment opportunities.
The programme was inaugurated by National Jute Board Assistant Director Mousumi Pandey and Assistant Director Uma Chandrika of the Indian Economic Service. They formally launched the training programme by lighting the traditional ceremonial lamp and encouraged participants to make use of the training to develop successful business ventures in the jute sector.
The presidential address was delivered by M. A. Subburaman, Managing Director of Fed Crot NGO, Madurai. In his address, he emphasized the need to empower women through skill-based training programmes and stated that the growing market for eco-friendly products presents significant opportunities for women entrepreneurs. He also stressed the importance of supporting sustainable industries that contribute to environmental protection.
The inaugural session was attended by organization officials including S. Krishnaveni, S. Angusamy, Saral Ruby, and R. Kannan from Mumbai. They appreciated the initiative and encouraged participants to take advantage of the programme to enhance their entrepreneurial skills.
Professor Dr. M. Kannan delivered the inaugural lecture, highlighting the increasing global demand for biodegradable and environmentally sustainable products. He explained that jute products have become an important alternative to single-use plastic products and can create long-term employment opportunities, particularly for women in rural and semi-urban areas.
An interactive session was held later in the day under the chairmanship of Sunny Jacob, President of the Rotary Club of Kodaikanal. Participants discussed various aspects of jute product manufacturing, quality standards, marketing strategies, financial support, and business development. The session also provided an opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to interact directly with experts from different sectors.
Several distinguished guests addressed the gathering, including M. Charles, Managing Director of Travel Inn, Madurai, R. Murugesan, Senior Manager of Union Bank, Kodaikanal, M. S. Shanti, Proprietor of Prowees, Kodaikanal, and S. G. Ganesh, RAAT Advisor of Fed Crot. They spoke about the economic potential of jute-based products and explained how such enterprises can improve the livelihoods of women while supporting environmentally sustainable development.
The National Jute Board's training programme is expected to help participants acquire practical knowledge in jute bag manufacturing, product quality, marketing, and entrepreneurship. The initiative is aimed at strengthening women-led enterprises, promoting self-employment, and encouraging the wider adoption of eco-friendly products across the country