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What is Karthumbi Umbrella? Why is it in the news?

In the 111th episode of the “Man Ki Baat” program, the Hon’ble PM talked about a special kind of umbrella- Karthumbi Umbrella, as an example of “Local for Vocal”. It is produced in Attappadi of Kerala by tribal women.

About the Karthumbi Umbrella

  • These are colourful and handmade umbrellas that are known for their engaging look, durability and craftsmanship.
  • Eight years ago, 70 tribal women, under Thampu’s initiative which works to uplift tribal communities, started making Karthumbi Umbrellas, which has now become a brand. Vattalakki Cooperative Agricultural Society oversees the entire project and provide assistance.
  • The tribal women use natural materials for creating frames. They use palm leaves and bamboo for the frame and cloth for the canopy. Thus, the umbrella is a sustainable product, leaving no impact on the environment.
  • These umbrellas are designed to endure severe weather conditions during the monsoon season. This very feature makes these umbrellas a preferred choice among people in Kerala.
  • The popularity of the umbrella is rising by the day and more women are joining the manufacturing.

What is “Local for Vocal”?

  • It was launched by the NITI Aayog to promote local manufacturing under its ambitious Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) which was announced in the Union Budget 2022-23.
  • The government aims to entrepreneurship spirit among people living in the remotest parts of the country. For this purpose, the government has launched several ambitious initiatives such as Make in India in 2014, Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, Production Linked Incentives (PLI), Skill Development Programme, and One District One Product.
    • Make in India was launched to promote innovation and manufacturing within the country and make India a global manufacturing hub. This programme has helped boost local production and attract foreign investment.
    • Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan was launched with the aim of making India self-reliant across sectors. It helps in decreasing imports and increasing exports.
    • The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme encourages domestic production by providing financial incentives to organisations on their incremental production. The PLI was introduced in many sectors with the potential to increase production such as electronics, textile, pharma, and others.
    • The Skilling initiative was launched with the aim to develop and enhance industry-related skills among youth. The main objective was to bridge the talent gap in the industry and solve the issue of unemployment.
    • Under the One District One Product initiative, the government focuses on identifying and promoting a unique product from each district of the country. It helps in utilising local expertise and resources while boosting local economic growth. State governments play a critical role in identifying unique products in their districts.

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