Aaranyak brings warping drum technology to Manas weavers

Guwahati: Aaranyak recently introduced warping drum technology to 20 women weavers in Gorumara, located in the Koklabari area of the Bhuyanpara Range near Manas National Park. The August 26 training session aimed to modernize traditional handloom work and cut down on physical strain. Warping is a difficult preparatory task that many locals previously handled outdoors, leaving them vulnerable to rain and harsh weather.

The new drums allow for indoor operation. Weavers can now work regardless of the elements. During the session, trainer Rekha Baro guided the women through bobbin winding and the full warping process. Participants were eager to learn. One weaver, Pokhila Boro, noted, "It will now be very easy for us to do warping inside the room even if it is rainy or sunny days; it will reduce working hard in coming days."

This initiative falls under Aaranyak’s broader Natural Resource Management Programme, which receives backing from IUCN-KfW. Dr. M. Firoz Ahmed led the effort alongside manager Detsung Basumatary. By improving technical skills, the group hopes to bolster household incomes and keep traditional weaving sustainable for younger generations. Baro remains available for follow-up technical support to ensure the women master the new method.