STRC Update

Science and Technology Resource Centre (STRC) successfully conducted a one-day workshop titled ‘Market Mirchi’ under the initiative ‘Mera Mobile – Mera Market’ for farmers, Gramsabha, self-help groups, and NTFP (Non-Timber Forest Produce) collectors. The workshop aimed to link rural communities with digital marketplaces, provide direct sales channels for forest-based products, and strengthen sustainable rural livelihoods.

The session was guided by Smt. Pragati Gokhale, Market Mirchi, Founder and Advisor, Rajiv Gandhi Science & Technology Commission (RGSTC), Nagpur, Government of Maharashtra. Participants received practical guidance on online product registration, price transparency, and establishing direct market linkages. Chief Program Officer & Head, STRC, Shri Swapnil Girade, emphasized, “STRC is committed to empowering rural and forest-based communities through digital tools. Initiatives like ‘Mera Mobile – Mera Market’ open new avenues for economic self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.”

A detailed discussion followed on relevant regulations, including the Forest Rights Act 2006 and PESA Act 1996, addressing challenges related to bamboo harvesting permissions, ownership rights, fund utilization, and inter-departmental coordination. The workshop saw participation from nearly 60 representatives, including Shri Devaji Tofa, Chairman, Mendha (Lekha) Gramsabha, along with Smt. Pragati Gokhale and Shri Swapnil Girade as Chief guests. STRC reaffirmed its commitment to providing technical and institutional support for digital marketing, skill development, and sustainable bamboo-based livelihood promotion across the district.