Guwahati: A group of 20 women handloom weavers in the Manas landscape is set to benefit from a new technology aimed at reducing the physical effort involved in weaving.

Aaranyak has introduced warping drum technology among women weavers at Gorumara in Koklabari under the Bhuyanpara Range of Manas National Park. The initiative seeks to reduce the drudgery associated with warping while improving the efficiency and consistency of their work.

The training programme was conducted on August 26 as part of efforts to integrate appropriate technology with traditional handloom practices and strengthen livelihood opportunities for communities living around the protected landscape.

Warping is a crucial preparatory stage in the weaving process. Traditionally, many weavers in the area perform the task along roadsides or in open spaces, making it time-consuming and physically demanding. Rain and other adverse weather conditions can further complicate the process.

The warping drum enables weavers to carry out the work more efficiently in an indoor setting, reducing physical strain and limiting their dependence on weather conditions.

During the practical training, participants were guided through the process step by step, beginning with bobbin winding and progressing to the completion of warping. While the technology is already used in several parts of the handloom sector, it was relatively unfamiliar to the participating women.

The new method is expected to help the weavers save time and energy while achieving greater consistency in their work.

“It will now be very easy for us to do warping inside the room even if it is rainy or sunny days; it will reduce working hard in coming days,” said Pokhila Boro, one of the participating weavers.

The training was conducted by Rekha Baro, a professionally qualified handloom trainer and experienced weaver from the region. She said the participants were attentive throughout the session and successfully completed the training module. She also provided her contact details to support the women with any technical assistance after the programme.

According to Aaranyak, improving the technical capabilities of women weavers can help strengthen household incomes, economic independence, and long-term livelihood security. The organisation also aims to encourage the transfer of these skills to younger generations so that traditional weaving remains economically sustainable.

The programme was led by Dr M. Firoz Ahmed, Director and Head of Aaranyak’s Tiger Research and Conservation Division and Herpetofauna Research and Conservation Division, along with Detsung Basumatary, manager of the two divisions. Other members of the organisation’s team also took part in the programme.

The initiative is part of Aaranyak’s wider efforts to promote alternative and sustainable livelihood opportunities for indigenous people and local communities living around ecologically significant landscapes.

The organisation said strengthening community livelihoods and enhancing women’s capacities can improve economic resilience while contributing to long-term conservation goals.

Aaranyak’s Natural Resource Management Programme in the Manas Landscape is supported by IUCN-KfW.