A comprehensive training program on leather products organised by Council of Scientific & Industrial Research – Central Leather Research Institute (CSIR-CLRI), Adyar, Chennai in collaboration with Yingli College Longleng and the Phom Baptist Christian Association commenced on Wednesday at the PBCA Executive Hall, Longleng, DIPR informed.

The program which will run till 5 August 2023, is tailored for self-help groups, entrepreneurs, and graduates and aimed to enhance their skills and knowledge in leather products. The participants at the training will engage in hands-on sessions covering various aspects of leather crafting, including wallet making, ladies’ sling bag creation, pen pouch crafting, and leather bag manufacturing.

During the inaugural program, P Suresh Kumar, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-CLRI informed that the program’s goal is to foster awareness and skill development in leather product manufacturing among SHGs, entrepreneurs, and graduates in the Longleng region of Nagaland.

Besides Kumar, the other resource persons from CSIR-CLRI include Dr M. Sathish, Scientist; Amit Kumar Prajapati, Technical Officer; and Arun Raj, Technician.

Meyazungba Jamir, SDO of Longleng, highlighted the growing trend of preferring entrepreneurship over traditional government jobs in Nagaland. He underlined the importance of breaking down societal stigmas attached to certain professions. The leather training initiative, a first in the region, holds the potential to become a significant platform for the people of Longleng. Jamir encouraged trainees to honor their trainers, interact with them, and aspire to establish the Longleng district as a hub for leather product manufacturing.

Tialemba Phom, Executive Secretary of PBCA, welcomed the attendees, while Dr B Henshat Phom, Vice Principal of Yingli College, delivered the closing remarks. The program was chaired by Philip Nyam, Literature cum Development Secretary of PBCA.