DIMAPUR, MARCH 22 (MExN): The cane and bamboo products of Nagaland, known for its craftsmanship and skill is on its way to get a major boost with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay introducing new tool kits, operated machines, mini tool kits among the cluster actors/artisans. New product design in bamboo craft, use of moulds, measuring tool, gauges, treatment for fungus, bores and colorings with natural dyes will also be introduced during the workshop.
Prof. Rao appreciating the artisans and the skills of the artisans of Nagaland said, ‘Khonoma basket is excellent’ but he added that the artisans, most of the times makes items using traditional tools and equipments which make it difficult for the artisans to produce enough to meet the demands and which in turn limits the market.
He further pointed out that the products lack uniformity due to manual process and use of traditional tools.
Articulating that Nagas have a good tradition, he said, ‘the artisans need new tools, new markets and new designs. The people need continuous innovation and continuous follow through’.
Keeping in view, the skills and the availability of raw materials and the various items produced by the local artisans, Rao said, “entrepreneurs should come up and change their mind set’. He further pointed out on the need to expose the entrepreneurs and also giving more exposure to the selected entrepreneurs.
On the role to be played by the government for improvement in the cane and bamboo products, Rao said the government has a very big role to play and further pointed out that the formation of Craft Council was a very good step.
But he also pointed out the lack of strategy as a major drawback despite the availability of schemes. He said the government should identify the needs of the artisans and advice them.
Rao who has been visiting Nagaland for the last five years said, ‘many good things are happening’ and suggested opening up of a tool bank for the artisans where tools will be easily available for the artisans to let them work more efficiently.
