Imphal, Dec 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 28 highlighted the achievements of grassroots entrepreneurs from Manipur during his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, underscoring how traditional knowledge, when paired with a contemporary vision, can become a force for economic empowerment and social transformation.
The Prime Minister said Mann Ki Baat provides a platform to spotlight individuals who are strengthening local economies through innovation while preserving cultural heritage. In this spirit, he drew attention to the work of Margaret Ramtharsiem from Churachandpur district, describing her journey as a powerful example of how traditional arts can be scaled into sustainable enterprises.
Ramtharsiem began her career as a handicraft artist but gradually expanded her outlook to promote Manipur’s traditional products, including handicrafts and items crafted from bamboo and wood. With this broader approach, she went on to establish a thriving unit that now provides employment to more than 50 local artisans. Her initiative has also succeeded in taking Manipur’s traditional products beyond the state, with markets developed in places such as Delhi.
The Prime Minister also referred to the story of Chokhone Krichena from Senapati district, who comes from a family with strong roots in traditional agriculture. By diversifying into floriculture, Krichena transformed her interest into a sustainable livelihood model that links local produce with wider markets, creating new economic opportunities for communities in the region.
Reflecting on these stories, Prime Minister Modi said they demonstrate how age-old skills and knowledge systems, when guided by a modern entrepreneurial mindset, can drive growth and self-reliance. He encouraged people across the country to share similar success stories from their own surroundings, emphasising that such efforts deserve recognition and a larger platform.
