SHIMLA Giri Foundation, an NGO based out of New Delhi and San Francisco adds yet another self-help group to its series of initiatives in Himachal Pradeshwith the vision to skill and employ women residing in the state. The Thangkha painting project with Ms Krishna Tashi, from Lahaul, a district in Himachal Pradesh, employs over 50 women including volunteers and trained artists. This art studio is an extension to their initiative to create a ‘cluster of craft clusters’ that come together to bring more and more women into employment. “The foundation is working hard to raise funds for these clusters that will help them achieve the last mile to economic independence,” Shares Megha B. Purohit, Founder Giri foundation. Krishna makes ‘Thangka paintings’ which is an ancient Tibetan art. It is based on Buddhist philosophy where Krishna and her team illustrate Buddhist deities, scenes or even mandala and contemporary style. Krishna received 6 years of formal training post, which she started pursuing her art work.
Working actively in the states of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Uttrakhand, Giri Foundation introduces three innovative empowerment initiatives. Giri demands the foundation partners and contracts with global brands to help source handmade products from the Himalayas. Giri Skill through which the foundation identifies skill development courses in handicrafts, weaving and entry level tech jobs and Giri Finance that associates with “Mudra Yojana '' and other micro- finance institutions, creating financing opportunities for skilled women.