Incense Making Livelihood Training for Tribal Women
With the goal of creating sustainable, home-based livelihoods for women in Palghar’s tribal belts, BGM Foundation launched a vocational training program in incense stick making. Conducted in collaboration with Govardhan Skill Centre in Wada, the 30-day training equipped 25 rural women with end-to-end skills from preparing raw materials and hand-rolling sticks to drying, packaging, and basic marketing.
This program emerged in response to the limited livelihood options available to women juggling domestic responsibilities. Incense stick making offers a culturally familiar, low-investment enterprise with high market demand. The training also introduced quality control techniques and explored eco-friendly innovations using essential oils and natural materials.
Following the pilot batch, three self-help groups began small-scale production and secured initial sales through community events and local vendors. Participants reported enhanced confidence, increased financial independence, and peer interest from surrounding villages. Ongoing handholding support is being provided to guide group formation, sales linkages, and access to microcredit.
Expansion plans include launching a second batch in August 2025, hosting branding and packaging workshops, and establishing connections with CSR donors, temple trusts, and e-commerce platforms. The project has laid a strong foundation for women-led collective enterprise in the district