Manipur: Displaced victims of violence rebuilding lives by selling handmade goods via livelihood programme

In an effort to empower displaced victims residing in a relief camp at Chingmeirong in Imphal East, adult inmates have taken the initiative to create various items for sale that includes dishwashers, incense sticks, decorative candles, and silk fiber. 

The livelihood programme, organized by Apunba Chingmeirong, aims to provide financial independence to those affected by the crisis.

The raw materials necessary for production were provided by Apunba Chingmeirong, a coalition of clubs, singlups, and meira paibis from the Chingmeirong community.

Skilled local volunteers provided hands-on training to inmates to produce these marketable goods and on July 17, the products were officially launched at the relief camp by Wangkhei MLA Th Arunkumar. 

The response from the community was overwhelming, as numerous customers flocked to the camp to purchase the newly available items.

During the launching function, Wangkhei MLA Th Arunkumar praised the efforts of Chingmeirong Apunba, commending their initiative to empower displaced victims. 

He also acknowledged the effort of the organization of providing essential relief materials, including food and lodging, to all 38 inmates, including men and children, since the onset of the crisis. Arunkumar also emphasized the importance of engaging in productive work during difficult times and highlighted the potential for the acquired skills to sustain their livelihoods after resettlement.

''This initiative not only empowers them financially but also instills hope for a brighter future beyond the camp's confines,'' he added.

One of the displaced individuals, Oinam Amarjit Singh expressed his joy at being able to earn a living through the collaborative efforts of the locals of Chingmeirong and the MLA. 

He stressed the need for the displaced victims to not only rely on the relief camp for their daily needs and commended the initiative as a significant step towards self-sufficiency.

Due to the overwhelming response and emotional connection customers have developed with the launched products, Chingmeirong Apunba has announced plans to provide additional raw materials to sustain the livelihood program.

As the displaced victims in the Imphal East relief camp engage in entrepreneurial activities, their determination to rebuild their lives shines through.

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