Discover the eco-friendly bamboo jewellery crafted by Tripura’s SHG women under NITI Aayog’s Vocal for Local initiative. Blending tradition and sustainability, these unique pieces empower rural artisans and promote green fashion with global appeal.
Agartala (Tripura), June 20: In a vibrant demonstration of sustainable living and women’s empowerment, the handcrafted bamboo jewellery of Tripura is earning admiration far beyond the region’s forested hills.
Under NITI Aayog’s Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme, the Vocal for Local initiative has brought the spotlight to the eco-conscious craftsmanship of rural women who are transforming bamboo into exquisite, wearable art, an X post by NITI Aayog on June 19 revealed.
Produced by Self-Help Group (SHG) members—fondly known as Didis—this jewellery reflects the fusion of age-old tribal techniques and modern design sensibilities. Made entirely from locally sourced bamboo, each ornament resonates with the natural charm and cultural essence of Tripura. Light, biodegradable, and stylish, these pieces are as much a statement of eco-fashion as they are of tradition.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these accessories tell a larger story of livelihood generation and community resilience.
For many women in Tripura’s remote villages, bamboo jewellery-making has become a pathway to financial independence and creative expression. What was once a traditional craft is now emerging as a sustainable enterprise, rooted deeply in local heritage and environmental responsibility.
The growing popularity of these products across Indian metros and international markets signals a new chapter for grassroots artisanship. The jewellery has become a symbol not only of green innovation but also of women-led entrepreneurship in the heart of India’s northeast.
As Tripura’s SHG Didis continue to blend nature with craftsmanship, their bamboo creations stand as enduring symbols of how local resources, when nurtured with skill and vision, can shape brighter, more inclusive futures.
About ‘Aakanksha’ :
In a move towards bolstering local economies and fostering grassroots entrepreneurship, NITI Aayog launched the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative under its Aspirational Blocks Programme on March 13, 2024 and also launched ‘Aakanksha’ logo under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative today. It would further be part of Aspirational Blocks Programme.
The logo for ‘Aakanksha’ was also unveiled under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative by Prof.
@Ramesh_ChandDr, Member, NITI Aayog in presence of Shri. B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO, NITI Aayog.
As a part of this initiative, indigenous local products from 500 Aspirational Blocks have been mapped and consolidated under Aakanksha. The launch was attended by all 329 Districts and Block Level Officials under Aspirational Blocks Programme virtually.
In order to encourage these products, a dedicated window for Aspirational Blocks Programme under the brand name ‘Aakanksha’ on GeM portal has been established.
The partners will also provide technical and operational support for the facilitation of e-commerce onboarding, establishing linkages, financial/digital literacy, documentation/certification and skill enhancement among others.
This comprehensive capacity-building approach is expected to significantly strengthen the Vocal for Local initiative, thereby ensuring sustainability.
By nurturing a conducive ecosystem for local businesses to flourish, the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative is poised to usher in a new era of economic empowerment and self-sufficiency.
Through sustained efforts and collective action, NITI Aayog remains committed to realising the full potential of every Aspirational Block, driving inclusive growth and prosperity for all.
