Arunachal Pradesh’s 1000-year-old heritage art, the Monpa Handmade Paper, has been recently brought back to life by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC). This noteworthy event has attracted attention from multiple quarters, highlighting a significant piece of cultural history that was on the brink of fading away.
About Monpa Handmade Paper
Known as Mon Shugu in the local dialect, the Monpa handmade paper is a fine-textured creation with links to the vibrant culture of Tawang’s indigenous tribes. The paper holds both historical and religious connotations as Buddhist monasteries utilize it for transcribing scriptures and hymns. It is derived from the bark of a local tree, the Shugu Sheng, holding medicinal properties in addition to its practical uses.
Origins and History of the Monpa Handmade Paper Industry
The tradition of crafting Monpa handmade paper dates back over a millennium. It gradually became ingrained in the customs and cultural life of the people residing in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang district. Once a primary livelihood source, these papers were produced in every Tawang household. However, the industry nearly vanished in the past century, its memory kept alive only by the elderly members of the community.
Revival Attempts and Successes
In 1994, an initial attempt was made to reestablish this handmade paper industry, but success was elusive. More recently, though, KVIC launched a Monpa handmade paper making unit in Tawang. The initiative aimed not just to rejuvenate the art but also to stimulate professional engagement for the locals, particularly the youth. This restoration aligns perfectly with the Prime Minister’s residential credo of “Vocal for Local.”
Plans for Future Revival Programs
Tawang is renowned for its local arts, specifically handmade pottery and handmade furniture. KVIC announced plans to revive these two arts within the next six months. The revival of handmade pottery will take precedence and will be initiated under the Kumhar Sashaktikaran Yojana.
About Kumhar Sashaktikaran Yojana (KSY)
Launched in 2018, KSY aims to empower potters across the country by helping them become self-reliant. The initiative seeks to elevate the living conditions of Indian potters through various assistance programs.
Role of Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)
The KVIC is a statutory body formed under the Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act of 1956. The commission’s responsibilities include planning, promoting, organizing, and implementing development programs for Khadi and other village industries in rural areas, often in collaboration with other rural development agencies. It operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
