IIT (ISM) Dhanbad launches week-long Sikki art programme in Bokaro
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK Dhanbad, August 30: The EIACP Programme Centre of the Department of Environmental Science & Engineering at IIT (ISM)…
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Dhanbad, August 30: 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, on Saturday inaugurated a week-long capacity-building programme on “Sikki Art for Sustainable Livelihood and Cultural Preservation” at Pindrajora in Bokaro district.
The programme, which began on August 30, will continue until September 4 and seeks to promote traditional handicrafts as a means of sustainable livelihood while preserving Jharkhand’s cultural heritage.
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 initiative also aligns with Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), the 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 of the EIACP Centre, said strengthening traditional skills could create meaningful and sustainable livelihood opportunities while preserving cultural heritage.
He also said interested trainees would be provided opportunities to showcase their products through stalls during major institutional events at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
Promoting Sikki grass craftsmanship
Sikki Art is a traditional handicraft that involves the skilled use of Sikki grass to create decorative and utility products, including baskets, boxes, containers, ornaments and other handcrafted items.
The programme seeks to highlight the potential of the craft as an eco-friendly livelihood option because it uses natural and locally available materials.
Prof. Sunil Kumar Gupta, Professor (HAG), Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, stressed the importance of integrating environmental sustainability with traditional livelihood practices.
Dr. Jaydev Mahato, Executive Director, Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, highlighted the role of traditional art forms in generating livelihoods and preserving cultural heritage.
30 participants undergo hands-on training
Expert trainers Naazda Khatoon and Md. Jasim shared insights into Sikki Art, its techniques and the potential for developing marketable products from the craft.
A total of 30 participants, including women members of self-help groups associated with JSLPS and homemakers, have registered for the hands-on training programme.
The Mission LiFE Pledge was administered by Dr. Avantika Chandra, Information Officer, EIACP Centre.
Top trainees to be recognised
Prof. Suresh Pandian, Associate Professor and Co-coordinator of the EIACP Centre, said three best-performing trainees would be recognised at the conclusion of the programme.
The trainees will be assessed on their skills, creativity and participation during the week-long programme.
The initiative is expected to provide participants with practical skills in Sikki craftsmanship while opening avenues for livelihood generation and product promotion, alongside contributing to the preservation of a traditional art form.
