From trees to trends: Shimla’s ‘banar’ rope initiative

In a significant move towards strengthening the rural economy in Shimla district, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap has suggested the Cluster Level Federation, Khushala village here, to use ‘banar’ tree ropes to make handles for jute bags. ‘Banar’ is a type of tree that is vastly found in many regions of Himachal Pradesh.

The DC gave this suggestion to the delegation of CLF that had come to meet him at his office here on Tuesday. During the meeting, he praised the federation’s work and encouraged the use of locally sourced raw materials to ensure an eco-friendly production system. He said using ropes made from the ‘banar’ tree for the handles of jute bags increased durability. The federation accepted this suggestion and confirmed that all upcoming jute products would incorporate ‘banar’ rope handles.

Kashyap also lauded the efforts of the CLF and assured them full administrative support to help these locally made products reach wider markets. He also directed the team to focus on improving product quality and packaging to enhance consumer appeal. “The district administration plans to soon organise specialised training camps where women will be trained in the use of modern equipment and marketing strategies,” he said.

Operating under the Totu Development Block, CLF, Khushala includes around 1,009 women across 110 self-help groups. These women are engaged in producing a variety of local goods through which they earn their livelihoods.

Kushal Singh, mission executive, Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM), said all groups were collaboratively working at the cluster level to create jute and pine needle-based products. “Comprehensive support is being provided to tackle marketing and operational challenges” he added.

The federation manufactures laptop bags, conference bags, file folders and lunchbox bags using jute. They are also using pine needles to craft decorative items such as hot cases, pen stands, coasters, placement trays, baskets, bowls, mini chests, hanging lamps, etc.