The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) has launched National Rural Economic Transformation Project (NRETP), {now, National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) – Cluster Development Programme (CDP)}, to promote growth and development of clusters. As a Technical Support Agency (TSA) to State Rural Livelihood Missions (SRLMs), EDII is engaged in providing technical assistance to artisan clusters through capacity building training, skill enhancement, market linkage and networking opportunities. In the last two months, the following clusters were impacted through result-oriented activities:
Badarwas Jacket Cluster, Madhya Pradesh
On April 26, 2026, the Cluster Company received an exposure opportunity during an inauguration programme held at Bhudha Donger, Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, where Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister for Communications & Development of North Eastern Region, Government of India, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Representative from the Cluster Company showcased their products before dignitaries, officials and participants. The event witnessed participation of more than 500 women and served as an important platform for enterprise visibility and market promotion.
Kolhapuri Leather Chappal Cluster, Maharashtra
The Kolhapuri Leather Cluster Women Producer Company Limited (KLCWPCL) undertook several initiatives focused on product diversification, artisan skill development, market expansion and promotion of traditional handcrafted leather products. The producer company has designed and produced more than 125 varieties of leather-based kitchen products.
During the last two months, three ten-day Skill Development Training Programme for Industry and Artisans (Skilling, Reskilling and Upskilling) under the Handicrafts and Carpet Sector Skill Council were conducted at KLCWPCL to strengthen technical skills and enhance self-employment opportunities for 90 women artisans engaged in Kolhapuri chappal manufacturing. Additionally, representative from Producer Company participated in the Mahalaxmi Saras Exhibition, Mumbai, held from May 2 to 14, 2026. The exhibition provided valuable exposure for market visibility, customer engagement and business networking.
Dausa Leather Cluster, Rajasthan
Two seven-day Skill Upgradation Training Programme for leather artisans were organized at Bishanpura & Bhandarej, Dausa. 40 artisans from Dausa Rajsakhi Leather Producer Co. Ltd. were trained in practical skills of leather product manufacturing, improving product quality, refining finishing techniques and increasing productivity.
Latur Bamboo Cluster, Maharashtra
The Latur Bamboo Cluster has demonstrated remarkable progress under the NRLM–Cluster Development Programme by achieving significant milestones within a short period of implementation. The cluster successfully accomplished its four-year artisan mobilisation target within the very first year of implementation. Against the planned target of mobilizing 254 artisans, the cluster successfully onboarded all artisans and enrolled them as shareholders in the Producer Company, ensuring institutional ownership, increased participation in governance processes and long-term commitment towards enterprise growth and sustainability.