The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handloom Development Corporation (NEHHDC) has launched the Jewellery and Handicrafts Livelihood Business Incubator (LBI) at its Bamunimaidan premises. Established under the ASPIRE Scheme of the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MoMSME), the incubator aims to modernize the region’s jewellery and handicrafts sector, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. The Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) serves as the mentor institute for this initiative. The Indian jewellery and gemstone sector contributes 7% to the GDP and 15% to merchandise exports. The LBI is poised to enhance Northeast India’s artisanal heritage by equipping entrepreneurs with cutting-edge technology and training, aligning with the government’s Make in India and Skill India programs. Designed to generate employment and strengthen the MSME sector, the incubator offers skilling, upskilling, and reskilling programs for artisans, self-employed individuals, and wage earners. It focuses on domains such as Gems and Jewellery, Handmade Paper and Paper Products, House Décor & Art Jewellery, and Toy Making. The facility features specialized sections, including a Design Section, Casting Jewellery Section, Handmade Jewellery Section, Gemstone Section, and Plating Section.
Equipped with advanced machinery such as 3D printers, casting jewellery machines, magnetic polishers, ultrasonic cleaning machines, and gemstone cutting tools, the incubator fosters industry-aligned entrepreneurship. NEHHDC has partnered with the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery (IIGJ), Jaipur, facilitating a five-day study tour for IIGJ students to explore Northeast India’s jewellery heritage. Additionally, artisans have exhibited their products 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 game-changer for Northeast artisans, providing them with the infrastructure and training needed to compete in global markets.”
Dr. Sriparna B. Baruah, Advisor, NEHHDC, added, “By merging traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, we are creating a vibrant ecosystem that fosters both heritage preservation and economic growth.” The Jewellery Display Centre was inaugurated by Mrs. RinikiBhuyan Sharma, Chairperson of Pride East Entertainments Pvt. Ltd., who commended the initiative and pledged her support for promoting North Eastern craftsmanship. The Gemstone Section was inaugurated by Dr. Lalit Sharma, Director, IIE, who acknowledged NEHHDC’s significant contribution to the sector. 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 showcasing sustainable, bamboo, clay, and traditional Assamese jewellery underscored the importance of the incubator in elevating Northeast India’s artisanal economy.
