The Mahila Coir Yojana, a women-oriented self-employment programme implemented under the Coir Vikas Yojana by the Coir Board, is proving to be a significant source of economic empowerment for rural women artisans in coir-producing regions. Designed to provide training and livelihood opportunities in the traditional coir industry, the scheme offers subsidised access to machinery and skill development that helps women launch micro-enterprises and improve their household incomes.
Under the scheme, eligible rural women artisans are trained in coir processing and related skills, including spinning and weaving techniques, and receive spinning equipment and tools at subsidised rates (up to 75 % of equipment cost) to help them establish their own operations. This support enhances productivity, product quality and working conditions, creating pathways not just for employment but for entrepreneurial activity in the coir value chain.
Training also includes exposure to improved technologies and quality standards, encouraging women to move beyond traditional manual methods and engage with more competitive and value-added roles in the coir market. Some beneficiaries are further supported to link with broader government schemes such as the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) to set up larger units or expand their business reach.
Experts say that initiatives like the Mahila Coir Yojana not only provide economic opportunities for rural women but also help reduce income disparities and strengthen grassroots entrepreneurship in manufacturing and artisanal sectors.
