Kodaikanal, August 3
The National Jute Board, operating under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, is set to launch a Jute Products Manufacturing Training Programme in Kodaikanal on August 4. The inaugural function will be held at JC Residency Hotel, Kodaikanal, with the objective of promoting skill development and encouraging entrepreneurship in the jute products sector.
The training programme has been designed to create awareness about the growing demand for eco-friendly jute products and to provide practical training for aspiring entrepreneurs, women, self-help groups, artisans, and individuals interested in starting small-scale businesses. The initiative also supports the Government of India's efforts to encourage the use of sustainable and biodegradable products as an alternative to plastic.
The inaugural session will begin with a welcome address by M. Charles, Director of Travel Inn. The inaugural address will be delivered by Professor M. Kannan from Madurai, who is expected to speak on the importance of skill development and the expanding opportunities in the jute industry.
The presidential address will be delivered by M.A. Subburaman, Managing Director of Fedcraft. He is expected to highlight the importance of entrepreneurship, innovation, and value addition in the production of jute-based products.
The event will also feature special addresses by Mousmi Pandey, Assistant Director of the National Jute Board, and Uma Chandrika, IEDS, Assistant Director. They are expected to provide insights into various government initiatives, training opportunities, financial assistance schemes, and market prospects available for entrepreneurs in the jute sector.
Following the inaugural session, an interactive discussion will be conducted with participants. Sunny Jacob, President of the Rotary Club of Kodaikanal, will attend as the Chief Guest and share his views on community participation and entrepreneurship development. R. Murugesan, Senior Manager of Union Bank of India, Kodaikanal Branch, will explain the financial support, loan facilities, and banking assistance available for individuals planning to establish jute-based enterprises.
The training programme is expected to cover the manufacturing of various jute products, including shopping bags, handicrafts, home décor items, utility products, gift articles, and other value-added products. Participants will also receive guidance on product design, quality improvement, branding, marketing strategies, and business development.
With increasing environmental awareness and restrictions on single-use plastics, demand for jute products has been steadily rising across domestic and international markets. The programme aims to equip participants with practical skills that can help them establish sustainable businesses while contributing to environmental conservation.
The event will conclude with a vote of thanks by M.S. Shanthi, Proprietor of Prowees, Kodaikanal. Organisers believe the training programme will create new employment opportunities, encourage entrepreneurship, and strengthen the promotion of eco-friendly jute products in the region.