Manipur techie supports displaced women with “Project Stitching Hope,” offering sustainable livelihood

A Manipuri tech entrepreneur based in Singapore is lighting the way for displaced women in conflict-hit Manipur, providing them with a sustainable livelihood through a project called “Project Stitching Hope.”  

Amid the ongoing 19-month conflict, thousands of internally displaced people (IDPs) have been left without income, living in traumatic conditions. In response to the dire situation, several initiatives have been launched to offer skill development and alleviate their suffering. One such initiative is Project Stitching Hope, which has been empowering displaced women by teaching them how to make crochet-stuffed amigurumi dolls for the international market.  

Launched under the One Million Heroes initiative—a subgroup of a tech firm owned by Karam Monish in Singapore—Project Stitching Hope has trained 50 women since October last year. These women are now part of a sustainable skill training program, crocheting dolls for global sale.  

“I feel so fortunate to have received doll-making training under One Million Heroes. I never imagined that I would gain such a skill in my life. This project not only provides financial support but also helps us keep our trauma at bay,” said Urmila, a displaced woman from Churachandpur. She shared that before the crisis, her family ran a hotel and business in their hometown, generating a steady income. However, the ongoing violence has forced them to take up small jobs for survival.  

Since receiving training, Urmila now earns between Rs 3500 to Rs 4000 per month by making crocheted dolls for several hours each day. The raw materials for the dolls are provided free of cost, and the project also handles the sale of the items.  

Nomita Ningthoujam, Project Manager for One Million Heroes, explained that local trainers were engaged to visit relief camps in Bishnupur and Kakching starting September last year. They have trained 50 displaced women, and over 40 are actively involved in crocheting the dolls.  

“Our team, which comes from a technical background, was motivated to help displaced people whose lives had been shattered by violence. After brainstorming, we decided that skill training would be a sustainable way to support them in the long run,” said Nomita.  

Initially, the dolls were simple creations like tigers, rabbits, and kittens, but now, customized items such as Radha and Krishna dolls are available, with new accessories to match various themes. The project not only sells the products but also shares the backstory of each item, emphasizing the artisans' journeys.  

The project has faced challenges due to the chaotic conditions in Manipur, including regular blockades and internet shutdowns. “Most of the raw materials are imported, and with frequent bandhs and blockades, we buy in bulk to avoid shortages. Logistics and delivery charges are a big challenge,” Nomita shared.  

Despite these hurdles, the team has implemented effective marketing strategies for both domestic and international markets, promoting the products through e-commerce, exhibitions, and campaigns. They have also received substantial support from goodwill buyers purchasing large quantities of finished products.  

Thanks to the dedication and hard work of the displaced women artisans, the products have garnered positive feedback. Nomita expressed her admiration for the women’s resilience, transforming their hardship into strength by crafting beautiful amigurumi dolls.