“A sustained source of livelihood through tasar reeling and spinning, and the inspiration and support from Smt. Pooja Verma, have given purpose to our lives,” say women after their release from jail. Indian Silk magazine spoke to two of them, now working in the Samiti’s trainer team at Chintoor, Andhra Pradesh.
Bharati joined Smt. Pooja Verma in her training assignment at Chintoor. In jail, she had received skill training for other trades too, but she says it was Smt. Pooja Verma’s counselling that made the difference.
“Spinning of tasar cocoons has given momentum to our perished life, and provided me an identity in the society, since I am no more a burden to the family. Instead, I can support them with earnings of my own from a legitimate yet rewarding activity.”
Amar Bai has joined the Samiti as a trainer for landless women. Fifteen days of training in Tasar spinning inside jail gave her confidence. After training, she worked for four to five more months, improving her efficiency and productivity.
“We are no more identified by a quadi (prisoner) number. Now we are known by our work that got us a name.”
Disability of any kind is no bar for a skilled and determined person. Priya was born with almost no fingers on both hands. She joined the SAMARTH Vanya reeling and spinning programme, run by Astitva Mahila Samiti under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
Within just 3 to 4 days of training, she was reeling and spinning with ease. Her dedication and skill are appreciated everywhere.
In February 2020, Karen and Terry from Canada helped us secure 100 Buniyaad reeling machines, along with cocoons, through their written request to the Director of the Central Silk Board. Their support created new livelihood opportunities and strengthened our mission of empowering women through skill development and sustainable employment.
We remain deeply grateful for their valuable contribution.
