The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handloom Development Corporation (NEHHDC) has officially inaugurated the Jewellery and Handicrafts Livelihood Business Incubator (LBI) at its Bamunimaidan premises. Developed under the ASPIRE Scheme of the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MoMSME), this initiative aims to modernize the region’s jewellery and handicrafts sector while fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. The Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) serves as the mentor institute. The Indian jewellery and gemstone sector significantly contributes to the economy, accounting for 7% of GDP and 15% of merchandise exports. The LBI is designed to empower Northeast India’s artisans by providing them with state-of-the-art training, infrastructure, and market linkages, aligning with the government’s Make in India and Skill India initiatives. Focused on employment generation and MSME sector growth, the incubator offers skilling, upskilling, and reskilling programs across various domains, including Gems and Jewellery, Handmade Paper and Paper Products, House Décor & Art Jewellery, and Toy Making. The facility comprises specialized sections such as a Design Section, Casting Jewellery Section, Handmade Jewellery Section, Gemstone Section, and Plating Section.
Equipped with cutting-edge machinery, including 3D printers, casting jewellery machines, magnetic polishers, ultrasonic cleaning machines, and gemstone cutting tools, the incubator promotes industry-driven entrepreneurship. NEHHDC has partnered with the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery (IIGJ), Jaipur, enabling a five-day study tour for IIGJ students to explore Northeast India’s jewellery heritage. Additionally, artisans have showcased their work at the Jaipur Jewellery Show in 2023 and 2024. Speaking at the inauguration, Brig. R.K. Singh (Retd.), Managing Director, NEHHDC, stated, “This incubator is a transformative step towards empowering Northeast artisans, equipping them with the tools to compete in global markets.”
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.
