TIGDO, 29 Sep: Twenty-five members of SHGs of Borum block participated in a five-day vocational training programme on candle-making and soap-making, which concluded on Tuesday at the Phassang Kayu Disposable Plate and Cup Factory here in Papum Pare district.

The training was organised by the Papum Pare Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), in collaboration with Borum ArSRLM Block Mission Manager Rita Bengde. The programme was coordinated by KVK subject matter specialist Nane Taga Jamoh.

The objective of the training was to equip SHG members with practical skills in candle- and soap-making, promote entrepreneurship and income-generating activities, and encourage participants to explore small-scale enterprises that can be undertaken using locally available resources.

The training also aimed to strengthen the technical knowledge, confidence and self-employment opportunities of SHG members and encourage value addition and diversification of their livelihood activities.

Throughout the five-day programme, the participants were provided with hands-on training in various aspects of candle- and soap-making, including preparation techniques, handling of materials, moulding, finishing, and basic quality considerations. The practical sessions enabled the participants to gain firsthand experience and develop skills that can potentially be converted into small-scale income-generating enterprises.

As part of the programme, an exposure visit was organised to Phassang Kayu Disposable Plate and Cup Factory in Tigdo village. The exposure tour provided the participants with an opportunity to observe the functioning of a local enterprise, understand basic production processes, and gain practical insights into entrepreneurship, production management and marketing possibilities.

The programme emphasised the importance of skill development and entrepreneurship among rural women and SHG members, with the broader aim of strengthening livelihood opportunities and promoting sustainable income-generation at the grassroots level.