PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE /Dehradun
Handmade national flags made by women from self-help groups have made a strong presence in the local flag market. The Dehradun district administration has also purchased and used these flags for the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign.
The Aastha Cluster Level Federation prepares national flags every year for Independence Day and Republic Day. Around 15 to 20 women are currently working at the sewing unit in Shankarpur. The women have made more than 5,000 Tirangas from cotton fabric so far. The sewing unit was established under the Rural Entrepreneurship and Livelihood Project (REAP). The women are working with support from REAP and the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
“The handmade flags are in demand during Independence Day and Republic Day,” said Jaymala, who runs the sewing unit. Schools, colleges, government departments, social organisations and local markets are buying the flags. She said people associated with the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign are also purchasing them. The unit has helped women earn money while managing their family responsibilities. “The women are also getting orders from government departments and other organisations,” she added.
Dehradun district magistrate Ashish Chauhan said the women are earning an income while taking part in the national campaign. He said the initiative is helping rural women become self-employed and giving them an opportunity to showcase their skills during national celebrations.
Chandni Self-Help Group member Kavita said that the demand for the flags increases around national festivals. She said the unit has helped women become financially independent and showcase their skills. REAP district project manager Sonam Gupta said the women had been making national flags earlier as well. However, the sewing unit has helped them increase production. She said the department is also purchasing flags from the women for the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign.
