Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Bamboo art may be part of vocational training in the state. A team of Bamboo Art Craft, Bhopal, has prepared a syllabus on the subject.
The purpose is to generate jobs through this craft and to make the state Atmanirbnar in it. The syllabus will not only help the traditional artisans to learn the craft but also provide job opportunities to them.
The syllabus comprises two courses: one is for six months and the other for one year. The syllabus has been prepared in three months during the second lockdown.
A bamboo artist Lalit Soni from Bhaisdehi village in Betul district says that 80% of people in Dhokna village earn a living through this craft. The artisans, as well as their children make bamboo items on the same pattern. Because of a lack of trainings, they cannot think anything new, he says. There are many skill development courses in ITIs but not in Bamboo art.
“So we have decided to design the syllabus to train traditional artisans, that they may get jobs. Besides, the training will help them become certified master trainers,” he says.
As well, the course will motivate their children to make a career in this art,” says Lalit. The syllabus, consisting of practical training and theory, has been made in such a way that, anyone may learn it. Workshops will also be organised. The state government has preferred bamboo-made items to the ones made of plastics as part Atmanirbnar Bharat campaign.
Another member of the group, Deepak Soni, says that it is a team work. They have prepared the syllabus in three months during the lockdown. For this, they have consulted a professor of Vindhyachal University and some ITI professionals. A candidate who has passed class 8 is eligible for admission to the course, Deepak says.
Another team member Kapil Uraiya says the work is almost complete. “We are in touch with an official of the Skill Development Department, Bhopal, for approval,” he says.
Gadkari assures help to promote bamboo art
Vishwakarma Award winner artisan Lalit Soni has recently met Union minister Nitin Gadkari for promoting bamboo art in the country. He requested the minister to provide tools and training facilities to bamboo artisans. He also talked to the minister about the syllabus and presented a bamboo-made memento to him. Gadkari appreciated his work and assured him of providing all help to promote the craft.
