A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed between NTPC Bongaigaon and the Zankla Foundation, the CSR arm of Zankla Studio, to establish Project SRIJAN, a CSR effort that focuses on the community. By teaching eco-friendly toy manufacture and embroidery art, the initiative aims to preserve the rich indigenous cultural history of Assam while also promoting sustainable artisan livelihoods.
Along with senior officials from NTPC Bongaigaon and representatives from the Zankla Foundation, the agreement was signed by Arnab Maitra, Executive Director and Head of Project, NTPC Bongaigaon; V. Jayanarayanan, Chief General Manager (HR, CSR, LA & R&R), NTPC Limited; P. K. Sahu, AGM (CSR), NTPC Limited; and others.
A total of fifteen people from two villages impacted by the NTPC project will participate in Project SRIJAN, where they will learn how to make sustainable toys and needlework. To help participants turn their newly learned abilities into sustainable income streams, the initiative offers ongoing mentorship, market-oriented coaching, and handholding support in addition to technical training.
An exceptional aspect of the program is the engagement of the Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club, NTPC Bongaigaon. They will serve as mentors and maintain frequent contact with the ladies who will benefit from the initiative. Participants will be assisted in developing self-assurance, starting micro-enterprises rooted on traditional handicraft, and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit through this ongoing support.
The initiative draws on the knowledge of Kirat Brahma, a graduate of the National Institute of Design (NID), who established the creative and social firm Zankla Studio in Assam. The studio has empowered over 70 artisans and positively impacted over 30 livelihoods through their heritage-inspired handcrafted soft toys and cultural storytelling. It does this by integrating contemporary design with the traditions of the Bodo community and Northeast India.
At the event, Arnab Maitra spoke on how important it is for corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to help people build sustainable livelihoods by fostering their creativity, skills, and connections to markets. Kirat Brahma stated that Project SRIJAN would support local artisans while also promoting indigenous culture. The initiative aims to turn local innovation into economic empowerment and cultural pride, with the support of NTPC’s financial assistance of up to ₹15 lakh + applicable GST for a 12-month period.
Image: India Masterminds
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