Pioneer News Service
Dhanbad
The EIACP Programme Centre of the Department of Environmental Science & Engineering at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, in collaboration with Jharkhand Foundation Kendra and under the aegis of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, inaugurated a one-week Capacity Building Programme on “Sikki Art for Sustainable Livelihood and Cultural Preservation” at Pindrajora in Bokaro district on August 30. The programme will continue until September 4.
The EIACP (Environmental Information, Awareness, Capacity Building and Livelihood Programme) Centre at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad works towards environmental awareness, information dissemination, capacity building and promotion of sustainable practices. The programme also aligns with Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), a national movement encouraging individuals and communities to adopt environmentally responsible and sustainable lifestyles.
Addressing the participants, Prof. Alok Sinha, Head of the Department of Environmental Science & Engineering and Coordinator, EIACP Centre, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, said, “Strengthening traditional skills can create meaningful and sustainable livelihood opportunities while preserving our rich cultural heritage.” He added that interested trainees would be provided opportunities to showcase their products through stalls during major institutional events at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
Sikki Art is a traditional handicraft involving the skilled use of Sikki grass to create decorative and utility products such as baskets, boxes, containers, ornaments and other handcrafted items. The art represents an eco-friendly livelihood opportunity as it promotes the use of natural and locally available materials.
Prof. Sunil Kumar Gupta, Professor (HAG), Department of ESE, emphasized the need to integrate environmental sustainability with traditional livelihood practices. Dr. Jaydev Mahato, Executive Director, Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, highlighted the potential of traditional art forms in livelihood generation and cultural preservation.
Expert trainers Ms Naazda Khatoon and Md. Jasim shared insights into Sikki Art and its product potential. The Mission LiFE Pledge was administered by Dr. Avantika Chandra, Information Officer, EIACP Centre.
A total of 30 participants, including women SHG members associated with JSLPS and homemakers, have registered for the hands-on programme. Prof. Suresh Pandian, Associate Professor and Co-coordinator of the EIACP Centre, informed that three best-performing trainees would be recognized at the programme’s conclusion for their skills, creativity and participation.
