Rural women in Odisha turn lacquer craftsmanship into economic self-reliance

Bhubaneswar, Oct 18 (UNI) A women-led enterprise in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district is turning traditional lacquer bangle-making into a profitable rural business, generating monthly earnings of over Rs 25,000 for each of its 25 members. Formed in 2018, the Binapani Lacquer Producer Group in Kuchila Khunta village under Badasahi block combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs. Its colourful bangles are sold locally and supplied to Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh, among other states. The initiative was spearheaded by Basumati Behera, who learnt the craft during a visit to Ranchi. Inspired by her husband Sukanta Behera's observations…