Tripura, a state in northeastern India, where I was born, has a rich tradition of cottage industry that plays a crucial role in its economic and social fabric. It is diverse, encompassing various traditional crafts, handloom weaving, bamboo and cane crafts, sericulture, and food processing.
Handloom Weaving:
Artisans producie various traditional and contemporary textile products. The state is known for its unique handwoven fabrics, including cotton and silk, with intricate designs and vibrant colors. The traditional items produced include Risa and Riha.
In fact, it was a pre-requisite for every tribal girl to know how to weave. Otherwise, she should not be considered as a potential bride. (source : Tripura Tourism)
Bamboo and Cane Crafts:
Tripura has a vast bamboo forest cover, and the state is known for its bamboo and cane crafts. Artisans create a wide range of products using bamboo and cane, including furniture, decorative items, table mats, floor mats, room dividers, decorated wall panels, and traditional household articles.
Sericulture:
Sericulture, or silk farming, is another critical cottage industry in Tripura. The state produces mulberry and non-mulberry silk, with sericulturists rearing silkworms and producing silk yarn.
Food Processing:
Cottage industries in Tripura also include food processing units, where local communities engage in pickling, jam-making, and traditional food preparation activities. The production of bamboo shoot-based products is also a notable aspect of food processing.
Art and Handicrafts:
Various art and handicrafts, including traditional paintings, wood carving, and pottery, contribute to the rich cultural heritage of Tripura by showcasing the ethnic diversity of the state and its indigenous communities.
Khadi and Village Industries:
Khadi and village industries have been promoted to provide employment opportunities and to preserve and promote traditional skills. Various products like khadi garments, handmade paper, and herbal products are produced in these industries.
The state government, along with various agencies and NGOs, has been working towards promoting and developing these cottage industries. Initiatives include training, financial assistance, and marketing support to the artisans and entrepreneurs involved in these sectors. Additionally, efforts have been made to link these cottage industries with national and international markets to enhance their visibility and market reach.
Note: You may buy from handicraft items from Purbasha, the Tripura Government Handicrafts Emporium in West Tripura.
