Empowering Tharu Women Artisans — UPIDR Training Since 2017

Introduction

Since 2017, the Uttar Pradesh Institute for Design and Research (UPIDR) has been at the forefront of empowering Tharu women artisans. Through continuous training, design interventions, and market linkages, traditional crafts like moonj grass weaving and water hyacinth products have been transformed into sustainable livelihoods.

Training and Design Interventions

UPIDR’s programs focus on:

• Improving product quality and finishing
• Introducing modern designs and colors
• Transforming household crafts into market-ready products

These interventions have connected artisans to buyers such as TRIFED and resorts like Nirvana Resort in Chandan Chauki, Lakhimpur, creating new opportunities for commercial supply.

Scale and Impact

The statewide initiative has trained over 75,000 artisans, including Tharu women. Many artisans, once limited to household crafting, now supply products commercially. This transformation has boosted incomes, preserved cultural heritage, and aligned with national campaigns like ODOP, VSSY, and Vocal for Local.

Community Transformation

Artisans like Arti Rana and others have become role models, leading groups and inspiring women to embrace self-reliance. The training programs have reduced vulnerabilities, prevented migration, and fostered pride in heritage crafts.

Conclusion

UPIDR’s long-term training programs have turned traditional crafts into engines of empowerment. By connecting artisans to markets and modern designs, these initiatives ensure that Tharu women artisans thrive in today’s economy.

Call to Action

Explore authentic Tharu crafts on our Shop Page and support artisan empowerment.