Success Editor Team
Techi Anna’s journey from a young bride with limited education to becoming a leading entrepreneur in Arunachal Pradesh is a testament to resilience, innovation, and empowerment.
Early Life and Challenges
Born and raised in Poma village, Papum Pare district, Techi Anna’s life took a traditional turn when she married at the age of 16. By 21, she was a mother of three, with limited formal education beyond the 8th grade. Her husband, unemployed at the time, added to the family’s financial strain. To make ends meet, Techi began selling clothes and imitation jewelry, but the earnings were insufficient to support her growing family.
The Turning Point: Embracing Bamboo Craft
In 2009, Techi contested and won a seat in the Panchayat elections, marking a significant shift in her life. This role exposed her to new ideas and opportunities. During this period, the then Governor of Arunachal Pradesh visited her village and suggested setting up a bamboo cottage industry to create livelihood opportunities. Inspired by this idea, Techi decided to venture into bamboo handicrafts, leveraging the abundant bamboo resources in her region.
Establishing Poma Bamboo Processing Industry
Techi began crafting basic bamboo products like hats, baskets, and storage boxes. The quality and uniqueness of her products quickly gained popularity in local markets. Recognizing the growing demand, she expanded her operations by employing local artisans and established the Poma Bamboo Processing Industry. Today, her enterprise produces a wide range of products, including furniture, home décor items, and bamboo jewelry.
Economic Impact and Recognition
The success of her business is evident in its financial growth. In the fiscal year 2022, Techi’s enterprise achieved a turnover of ₹50 lakh. Her products are sold both locally and at exhibitions, with monthly earnings averaging around ₹80,000, sometimes exceeding ₹2 lakh during peak periods. Techi also trains aspiring artisans, having imparted skills to over 3,000 individuals from various parts of India and even abroad.
In recognition of her contributions to handicrafts, Techi Anna was honored with the Vasundhara NE Woman Entrepreneur of the Year award for the year 2016-17 .
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Techi aims to diversify her business into textiles, further expanding her impact on the local economy and providing more employment opportunities. Her story continues to inspire many, showcasing the transformative power of entrepreneurship and the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous crafts.
Techi Anna’s journey underscores the potential within rural communities when individuals are empowered with the right opportunities and support. Her success serves as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, in Northeast India and beyond.
