With normalcy fast returning to Manipur, the state government is placing great emphasis on reviving the traditional woodcraft industry.  It is encouraging the youth in the state to opt for a career in this traditional industry.

Also under the self-employment scheme of the government many young people have set up their own units to manufacture products made up of wood.

Engrossed in their own world of drilling and carving, these young men and women are masters of their own destiny.  No longer dependent on government jobs for their livelihood, they have come together to revive a traditional industry.  These motivated youth have channelized their energy and creativity into productive purposes with natural resources available in the state the only the raw materials required for churning out their masterpieces.

They are aware that many gullible youth have been misled into insurgency.  They are aware of the pitfalls and are determined not to let it happen to them and the government is providing all possible help.

"There is an unemployment problem in the state.  The handicrafts enable us to make a decent amount, so I think I will do well in the coming years.  I will take a loan and expand our business," said Bhogen, an artist.

Out of forty varieties of wood in North East fifteen are found in Manipur, with more than one and half lakh people employed in the woodcraft industry.  The Total net revenue, which accrues to Manipur through this industry, is around 290 lakh rupees.

The State government and several financial and business groups are setting up ten woodcraft industries to promote this traditional industry.

Not just this, training is also being imparted to people.  Such training schools have two purposes - one to preserve the traditional industry and second, to equip the youth with entrepreneurial skills.  And this is yielding results.

"We have sold our products in Benaras, in many places in Manipur as well as outside the state.  We are also planning to go to Hyderabad to exhibit our handicrafts," said Lairenmayum Bungochouba.

Over the last few years the traditional handicraft industry of the North East has found a market outside the region.  These hand made products made of cane and bamboo are a regular feature in trade fairs organized in various parts of India, displaying in vivid details the quintessential cultural symbols of North East.  (ANI)