Thiruvanthampuram, Aug 9 (KNN) The Handicrafts Development Corporation of Kerala (HDCK) has received a green light from the state to revive the  screw pine industry and preserve traditional craftsmanship.

The HDCK’s project aims at promoting the manufacturing of screw pine, reed and cane products that will be procured and sold by the corporation.

As per reports, the cooperation will train 40 persons and provide them with all the raw materials and equipment. Two clusters will also be formed for the smooth functioning of the project. Through this, the corporation also plans to ensure a market for the products and extend direct financial support to 60 artisans.

Ramabhadran, HDCK chairman said, “The project will be launched in Thazhava panchayat first. After evaluating the prospects, it will be extended to other districts too. The project was assessed by the Planning Board, the Industries department and the Scheduled Caste Development department before giving the approval.”

In the first phase, Rs 30 lakh, including Rs 27 lakh from the Scheduled Caste Development department and Rs 3 lakh from the HDCK, will be used. In the first phase, the production cost will be paid as a grant by the Scheduled Caste Development department.

Apart from mats, a range of other products, including bags, baskets and artefacts, will be produced as part of the project. While mechanisation and product diversification will be introduced slowly, the project will be launched in other major screw pine industry centres by next year. The Centre for Management Development (CMD) will be in charge of the project implementation.

One of the products from Kerala with a GI tag, screw pine mats are considered an eco-friendly alternative for plastic mats.  (KNN Bureau)