Kohima: Thirty local artisans started a 50-day wood carving training program in Indisen village, Dimapur, on Saturday. The workshop runs through December 7. The Guru Shishya Hastshilp Prashikshan Programme aims to boost craftsmanship by blending ancient Naga heritage with modern production methods.
The Ministry of Textiles and the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) sponsor this initiative under the National Handicrafts Development Program. The Nagaland Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd. handles the implementation. Officials from the corporation and the Handicrafts Service Centre in Kohima oversaw the opening ceremony.
Speakers highlighted the need to keep local traditions alive while building steady incomes. They told the group: "mastering intricate wooden carving techniques, and leveraging government initiatives to create sustainable livelihood opportunities."
Participants receive all tools and raw materials at no cost. The state also provides a daily wage stipend for the duration of the course. Handicrafts Service Centre staff will conduct regular inspections to verify that the instruction meets strict quality standards.
Comments