The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handloom Development Corporation (NEHHDC) has inaugurated a Jewellery and Handicrafts Livelihood Business Incubator (LBI) at its Bamunimaidan premises, aiming to modernize the region’s artisan economy. Developed under the ASPIRE Scheme of the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MoMSME), the incubator will provide infrastructure, skilling, and market linkages to artisans, aligning with the Make in India and Skill India initiatives. The Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) serves as the mentor institute.
The jewellery and gemstone sector contributes significantly to India’s GDP (7%) and merchandise exports (15%), making strategic investments like the LBI essential for regional economic growth. By integrating cutting-edge technology such as 3D printing and gemstone processing with traditional craftsmanship, the incubator seeks to enhance productivity and global competitiveness.
Dr. Sriparna B. Baruah, Advisor, NEHHDC, emphasized, “By blending heritage with technology, we are fostering an ecosystem that promotes sustainable livelihoods and economic growth.” The Jewellery Display Centre was inaugurated by Mrs. Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, Chairperson of Pride East Entertainments Pvt. Ltd., who lauded the initiative and expressed her commitment to supporting Northeast craftsmanship. The Gemstone Section was inaugurated by Dr. Lalit Sharma, Director, IIE, who commended NEHHDC’s role in the sector’s development. The event witnessed participation from industry leaders, including former MP Smt. Queen Oja, NID Director Dr. JP Sampath, and senior officials from NEDFi, NABARD, and MSME DFO. A jewellery exhibition featuring sustainable, bamboo, clay, and traditional Assamese jewellery highlighted the incubator’s role in enhancing Northeast India’s artisanal economy.