Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, Masamichi Saigo, signed a grant contract for upgrading of women’s handicraft and Mithila art center in Janakpur. The grant contract was signed between the Embassy of Japan and Sunina Karna, Chairperson of the Janakpur Women’s Development Center.

The project is funded under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) of the Japanese Government. The total grant assistance is USD 64,664 (approximately NPR 7.3 million).

The project will support the repair of the center where completed art works are spoilt by the rain water passed through decrepit roofs. The work includes the renovation of one wing of the center to create a hall for trainings and seminars.

The Janakpur Women’s Development Center has been contributing to provide income generation among Dalit women and minority groups since 1991. Not just skills and income, women can obtain self-esteem and be empowerment thorough the opportunities of the center.

Despite having a unique identity, Mithila Art has lately come under the spotlight, especially in Western countries. In 2018, a Mithila artist, Manjula Thakur was invited to a folk art exhibition held in Santa Fe, USA. The Embassy of Japan expects this project will improve the working environment for the women of minority groups and empower them.