VASCO
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday said reviving Goa’s traditional Kunbi art was vital to preserving the State’s cultural identity and creating sustainable livelihoods.
Sawant was speaking after inaugurating the ‘Weaves of Goan Natives’ initiative and Mahila Resource Centre at Joggers Park, Chicalim, in Dabolim constituency. The initiative aims to revive Kunbi weaving and create opportunities for women through training, production and employment.
Sawant said Kunbi culture was an important part of Goa’s heritage and welcomed efforts by contemporary designers to give it a fresh identity.
He said the government had supported Kunbi art for eight years as part of its Swayampurna Goa vision, and congratulated designer Verma D’Mello and Chicalim Deputy Sarpanch Aishwarya Korgaonkar for promoting the initiative.
Sawant inspected the workshop and interacted with women involved in colouring, designing and manufacturing Kunbi saris and other products. Traditional patterns are also being adapted for dresses and other contemporary products.
Dabolim MLA and Panchayats Minister Mauvin Godinho said the initiative sought to reconnect young people with Kunbi art while creating economic opportunities for women.
He said the Mahila Resource Centre aims to help women gain practical skills and financial independence. Its first phase targets 100 jobs, with 75 women already involved. They will receive stitching training and undertake orders for school uniforms, children’s clothing and other garments. The centre will also explore work-from-home opportunities.
Godinho said the shed and stitching machines were provided through CSR support and his personal contribution. The project operates on a “no-profit, no-loss” basis, with the primary aim of helping women earn independent incomes.
Shed for youth empowerment planned
VASCO: Panchayats Minister Mauvin Godinho announced plans to establish a larger shed for youth empowerment in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
The proposed facility will focus on skill development and training, with trained youth to be connected with employment opportunities in hotels and companies.
