Guwahati: A new incubation centre has been set up at the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation Limited in Assam's Guwahati to support micro-enterprises. The Northeastern Jewellery and Handicrafts Livelihood Business Incubator under NEHHDC will support artisans entering the national market, focusing on preserving and promoting traditional jewellery and handicrafts.
During an exclusive interview with Business North East (BNE), NEHHDC advisor Sriparna B Baruah highlighted initiatives to boost the gems and jewellery market in the Northeastern region.
Speaking of the newly opened Gems, Jewelry, and Handicraft Incubation Center, she said, "Jewellery is considered an integral part of handicraft, so NEHHDC has included it in its incubation centre. With financial backing from the Ministry of MSME's ASPIRE scheme, this centre has state-of-the-art resources - including a 3D printer, casting, and plating facilities."
However, apart from the PM Vishwakarma program, the initiative is yet to be formally launched. "The machines arrived about three months ago, and we are currently in the sampling phase and connecting with entrepreneur associations. So far, we have signed MOUs with the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery and the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council for technical support and skilling programs," the NEHHDC advisor said.
She further said that the scheme covers up to one crore for plant and machinery costs, and the Ministry of MSME has been reimbursed the entire cost utilized for establishing the new incubation centre.
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Moreover, brand collaborations are underway but are yet to be fully established. Despite its vast potential for employment generation and exports, the gems and jewellery sector has not been tapped.
"We're currently focusing on identifying designs that can enter the national market. Prototyping and piloting products inspired by local designs are our first steps."
Regarding market size, Sriparna B Baruah said there is no market record for the sector in the Northeast as it is unorganized.
"For example, in Assam, we have pockets like Rongpur and Borpeta, but they are mainly suppliers and traders to larger showrooms in Guwahati and other cities. Our goal through the incubation centre is to address these issues and bring structure and organization to the sector."
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Considering the 'vocal for local' movement, Sriparna B Baruah said that local artisans and their traditional designs are being highlighted at the national level by the NEHHDC. "Participation in the upcoming Ashatalakshmi Mahotsav in Delhi will occur, where live demonstrations and buyer-seller meetings will happen. The designs by artisans from Rongpur and Borpeta will be showcased to national buyers. For the first time, this event will include jewellery as a sector," she told BNE.
Moreover, the NEHHDC advisor emphasized that technology and innovation are crucial for the empowerment of the artisans. Much has been done in handloom digitization. However, issues such as local production being overshadowed by outside production need to be addressed. Technology will play a significant role in ensuring quality and authenticity. For now, online selling is being focused on, and eventually, AI may be incorporated for better reach and reliability.
According to Sriparna B Baruah, Jewellery bears immense potential, much like Jaipur, which has become a prominent hub for the industry. "We aim to bridge the gap between local artisans and national markets through our efforts. Inspired by local stories and culture, our unique designs have already garnered interest. The scope is unlimited, and we are excited about the future possibilities," she said.
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