How a Unique Incense Project is Empowering Women at the India-Bangladesh Border
Empowering Women Through Incense Manufacturing
Kolkata: A Border Security Force (BSF) unit stationed in a remote village along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal has initiated a new incense manufacturing program aimed at providing employment opportunities for local women, thereby fostering women empowerment in the area, according to officials.
The initiative, named ‘Baibhav Samruddhi Seema Sugandh Agarbatti’ (glory and prosperity border fragrance incense sticks), was launched in Hudapara village, located in the Nadia district, on May 22.
The 32nd BSF battalion has enlisted the help of an expert from Kolkata to train the women in the village, assisting them in sourcing raw materials and producing the final product, as stated by a senior BSF officer.
On its first day, over 400 packets were sold, with customers including local residents and personnel from various BSF camps in the vicinity.
Each packet is priced at ₹25 and contains 40 incense sticks.
Officials noted that the women are reinvesting their profits into acquiring raw materials, creating a sustainable business model. This initiative is designed to promote economic independence and skill enhancement among women.
Commanding Officer Sujeet Kumar emphasized, "The goal is to actively involve the border community and provide a reliable source of income for local women."
Another officer mentioned that this indigenous incense manufacturing project not only aims to financially include locals but also seeks to reduce cross-border crimes by providing sustainable livelihood options.
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Prior to launching the project, a BSF team visited local villages to invite women interested in learning the craft of incense stick making and earning from their skills.
The response was overwhelmingly positive, leading to the realization of this venture, according to the officer.
Such initiatives are part of the BSF's 'civic action work' charter, aimed at fostering goodwill with local communities and engaging them as vital partners in ensuring security. This project is viewed as a significant step towards empowering women in border villages.