Jute and Banana Cluster (SFURTI)

Impact Story

Overview

SFURTI: Jute and Banana Natural Fiber Cluster

Ministry of MSME, Government of India

Five Years (Under implementation since 15th July 2020)

10,000 Jute and other Handicraft Artisans

Location: Aspirational district Purnea, Bihar
Common Facility Centre: Established at Uphrali, Purnea
Artisans Involved: 1,000+ artisans are directly associated with the cluster.

The SFURTI scheme aims to:

1. Provide employment to artisans and entrepreneurs.

2. Improve competitiveness through skill and technology enhancement.

3. Enhance marketability of products.

4. Ensure long-term sustainability of the cluster.

- A model unit for upskilling artisans has been established.
- 12 Automatic Sewing Machines and 5 Paddle Machines installed.
- 50 women artisans have been directly benefited, gaining skills in designing and sewing garments blended with jute and banana fiber.
- Approximately 100 indirect beneficiaries engaged in craft making, packaging, and marketing.
Product Development:
- Artisans are producing various products, including jute bags, greeting cards, and business cards made from banana fiber.
- Over 2,000 jute-made Rakhis of 50 varieties were created by women artisans.

Soft Interventions:
- Training, workshops, and capacity-building programs to upskill artisans.
Infrastructure Development:
- Construction of the Common Facility Centre.
- Establishment of display centers, sales outlets, and market linkages.
Handholding Support:
- Ongoing support through the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for effective project implementation.