Women entrepreneurs worry over market of Dhaka garments

KATHMANDU, MARCH 10: A group of women from Taman village in Tamankhola rural municipality-3 of Baglung district embarked on a journey to establish a Dhaka clothes industry some years ago. Initially, they were filled with optimism and continued their Dhaka yarning endeavors. However, their enthusiasm has dwindled as they struggle to find a market for their products. Despite the store being stocked with Dhaka garments, the demand remains negligible, leaving the women entrepreneurs feeling disheartened.

The women, associated with the local Kalyan Mothers’ Group of Taman village, received 15-day training on Dhaka yarn and weaving from the Sangam Consultancy Centre in Baglung. With an initial investment of Rs 45,000, the industry has managed to produce clothes worth Rs 700,000. Unfortunately, due to the lack of market access, they are compelled to travel extensively to sell their products, sometimes reaching as far as Burtibang and Myagdi.

Various items such as shawls, caps, and lungis are crafted in the industry, but the products have not met expectations in terms of sales. Despite their efforts to allocate time for the industry in the mornings and evenings, the women are disappointed by the inability to sell a single item. While they initially worked with great enthusiasm, the lack of market penetration has dampened their spirits. However, they remain hopeful that their goods will gradually find their way to the market.

The women emphasize the need for aggressive marketing and stress that more women could become self-employed if the government ensured the marketing of their products. The Chairperson of Tamankhola rural municipality, Joklal Budhamagar, acknowledges the challenges and pledges support to women entrepreneurs. Initiatives such as bearing transport expenses for them to participate in trade fairs and festivals are part of their plans to support these entrepreneurs and boost the local economy. However, Budhamagar also points out the challenge posed by the increasing use of imported goods from cities, which affects the market for local items. Nevertheless, the rural municipality remains committed to prioritizing and supporting women entrepreneurs in their endeavors.