Women and Handicrafts in Punjab, Survey report Part 2, Training and Marketing, in collaboration with and under supervision of ASR- Applied Socio-Economic Research, 1988-1989.

Fareedee, F.

Chapters: 1. An overall Analysis and Policy Recommendations, 2. The Trainee, 3. The Trainer Women, 4. The Trained Women, 5. Domestic Markets, 6. International Exports, 7. Case Studies.

The basis for this study was the observation that economic future or financial position of a Pakistani woman is more uncertain than a man's, due to low literacy rates, traditional barriers, lack of opportunities for employment, and low-income levels. Consequently, women try to safeguard their future by participating in such trades that do not require them to leave the compounds of their own homes. The vocational training centers for handicrafts were considered to be such avenues, which could fulfill their requirements without interfering with the norms of their environment. However, since the government has not introduced these training centers in a large number, therefore non-governmental organizations are playing a significant role in establishing private training centers. As a consequence, this study was conducted in six divisions of the Punjab Province, to analyze the vocational training centers established by various NGOs, and look at the impacts of the trainings provided by them on women's economic empowerment. The survey reported that these centers have helped in the development of local crafts like sewing, embroidery and mirror-work. However, most of the NGOs are working under private charity organizations and their financial resources were limited, causing a great hindrance in the avenue of development. Thus, government intervention is required for the proper implementation of development policies.

Key words: Women, Handicrafts, Training, Marketing, and Economic empowerment.