A 50-day Guru Shishya Hastshilp Prashikshan Programme (GSHPP) for 30 local Thanka painting artisans began at Changey Senti in Pakyong district, Sikkim, on Friday.
Organised by the Multiform Development Foundation, Nagaon, Assam, and sponsored by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Union Ministry of Textiles, the programme will run until January 4, 2027.
The training aims to help artisans refine their techniques, improve product quality and strengthen their craftsmanship. Officials and community representatives, including Santanu Ray, Handicrafts Promotion Officer, and master craftspersons Lakpa Dorjee Bhutia and Topden Bhutia, attended the inaugural ceremony.
The dignitaries encouraged participants to combine innovation with traditional methods to preserve Sikkim’s cultural heritage and improve livelihood opportunities for artisans.
