Diyas are made from cow dung in Koderma, Jharkhand, women are moving towards self-reliance.

Koderma, October 18 (IANS). Regarding Diwali, the cow dung lamps and idols of Ganesh-Lakshmi being prepared in the Pahalwan Ashram located in Bhakhra of Satgawan block of Koderma district of Jharkhand have become the center of discussion. Generally, earthen lamps and electronic lamps are easily available in the market, but very few people can see eco-friendly lamps and other products made from cow dung. Here, rural women not only pave the way for self-reliance through cow dung art, but also make a unique contribution in the field of environmental protection and cow protection. Keeping the Diwali and Chhath festivals in mind, 15 types of products are prepared from cow dung in Pehalwan Ashram. These include lamps, idols of Ganesha-Lakshmi, door robes, auspicious signs, Swastika symbols, cups of incense, signboards like “Shubh Diwali” and “Jai Chhathi Maiya”. These products made of cow dung and wood sawdust are dried in the sun and decorated with attractive colors, which look very attractive. These products are not only safe for the environment, but after use they are mixed with the soil and take the form of compost, which causes no harm to the environment. Vijay Kumar, Neetu Kumari and Ishan Chand Mahato, treasurers of National Jharkhand Seva Sansthan, received training from Bhuj, Gujarat and taught the techniques of cow dung artwork to the women of the village. This training played an important role in empowering rural women economically. Secretary of the institute Manoj Dangi said that complete preparations have been made from Dhanteras to Diwali. These products got a special place in the Diwali fair organized by the IAS Officers’ Wives Association in Ranchi recently. Many senior officers appreciated this and also made purchases. Manoj Dangi told that these products made from cow dung are useful in protecting against radiation and imparting positive energy. Besides, cow conservation is also promoted by using the manure of old cows that do not produce milk. Once known as a Naxal affected area, Satgawan block has today become a center for women empowerment, environmental protection and cow protection through cow dung art. This initiative is a strong step towards realizing the vision of a developed India, bringing a new ray of hope in the lives of rural women. –IANS AKS/DSC Share this story Tags