30 Women Complete Pastry and Cake Making Training Under MEPP at Arkaneer, Sekerkote

Sekerkote, Tripura | Friday: The valedictory programme of the "Pastry and Cake Making" training under the Micro Enterprise Promotion Programme (MEPP) was successfully held at the training hall of Arkaneer, Sekerkote. Supported financially by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), the programme aimed to enhance employable skills and promote self-reliance among 30 women trainees from Sepahijala district.

The event marked the successful completion of the practical training, with certificates presented to all successful participants. The programme was attended by distinguished guests, including Mr. Bappa Kishore Roy, Assistant Manager, SIDBI, as the Chief Guest. The Special Guests were Smt. Monika Das Dutta, Hon'ble Deputy Mayor, Agartala Municipal Corporation, and Smt. Jharna Das, Pradhan, Sekerkote Gram Panchayat. Officials of Arkaneer, Master Trainer Ms. Debashree Das, and senior executives of the MEPP project were also present. The programme commenced with a floral welcome for the dignitaries.

Addressing the gathering, Smt. Monika Das Dutta emphasized the need to continuously encourage and support emerging micro and small entrepreneurs. She highlighted the importance of sustained mentorship, market linkage, and institutional support to help entrepreneurs overcome business challenges and build sustainable livelihoods. Appreciating the enthusiasm displayed by the trainees, she expressed confidence that the newly acquired baking skills would enable them to create successful entrepreneurial ventures. She also acknowledged the efforts of Arkaneer and SIDBI in organizing the programme.

Smt. Jharna Das, Pradhan of Sekerkote Gram Panchayat, encouraged women to become financially independent by utilizing their skills to establish small businesses instead of remaining confined to traditional roles.

Chief Guest Mr. Bappa Kishore Roy stated that baking and pastry-making skills hold significant potential for promoting self-employment and strengthening the micro-enterprise sector. He noted that such practical skill development initiatives not only create livelihood opportunities but also instill confidence among aspiring entrepreneurs to start their own ventures.

Speaking on behalf of the trainees, participants Sarbani, Jaya, Smriti, Puja, Monai, and Priya shared that the hands-on training had significantly enhanced their confidence and prepared them to launch their own businesses. They expressed gratitude to Arkaneer for providing practical, industry-oriented training.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Ms. Debasmita Ganguly, Research Scholar of the organization. During the concluding session, guests sampled the pastries and cakes prepared by the trainees and praised the quality and creativity of their products.

Concluding the programme, Mr. Anup Dey, Project Officer, NBIRT, informed that the organization will continue organizing skill development programmes focusing on emerging technologies and innovative livelihood opportunities. He reaffirmed the organization's commitment to providing continuous hand-holding support for micro and small entrepreneurs, particularly in Dhalai and Sepahijala districts, to strengthen local entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development.