By Dr H Romen,
BISHNUPUR, October 15: In this present era of internet and advanced technologies, one humble device that has withstood the test of time to carve out its own place in the daily lives of the people of this place, made possible in no small measure by the never ending bandhs, blockades and general strikes etc, is the easily portable and convenient kiln, more specifically the Baked Kilns of Nambol that utilizes diverse locally available materials such as charcoal, sawdust, rice husk and logs when LPG or cooking gas is in short supply- a common enough phenomena in this state.
The particular kiln is becoming increasingly popular with rising demands from every corner of the state including Chandel, Churachandpur, Bishenpur, Imphal and Thoubal Districts.
An investigation by IFP into the making and the persons responsible for the popularity of this device reveals a tale of bravery and battle for life and livelihood.
After the untimely demise of the creator and designer of the baked Nambol Kiln Sorokhaibam Dhaneshwar at the age of 46 at his residence at Nambol Phoijing Awang Leikai, Imphal West District due to BP Stroke, Chaobi (36), his second wife is continuing with the venture. Chaobi, a resident of Leimapokpam Village under Nambol PS is a divorcee with a girl child from her previous marriage to Salam Omor of Samurou is staying along with two sons of Dhaneshwar from his earlier marriage, whose mother also expired incidentally.
Chaobi, a HIV Positive person at the time of her second marriage, began counselling in 2007 at the Community Care Centre of People’s Resource Development Association, Bishnupur and subsequently began ART medication, struggling to make both ends meet with other requirements for her three children, the eldest son doing graduation, the second daughter studying in class V and the youngest son still in Kindergarten in nearby institutions.
Chaobi started peddling the kilns by going to places such as Nambol, Bishnupur, Ningthoukhong, Moirang etc. but has now received inquiries and orders from places like Pallel, Thoubal, Kakching, Churachandpur etc. meeting the increased manpower requirements by training her brother-in-laws and other relatives. She now sells her wares from home, with a kiln costing Rs.190 at wholesale and Rs. 230-250 at retail price.
The increase in prices of raw materials such as cement, iron etc has forced her to cut down on her profit margin, while she still struggles to produce 10 kilns in s single day owing to the lack of application of any technological aids.
Lamenting the fact that she have not yet received any enquiries or financial aid from any Government authority or NGOs, Chaobi expressed the desire to modernize her production techniques to crank up the products which will bring in more profits, but admits to being in the dark regarding upgradation of her production process as she is illiterate, adding that the cost of her periodic check-ups and tests are posing a rel burden on her income.
Despite her struggles and hurdles, Chaobi is still optimistic of her prospects if she can avail of a means to meet the increasing demand for her products.
She also appealed to everyone living with HIV/AIDS to come out in the open about their status so that chances of infection can be minimized as there is an increased awareness among the public and an active support system and mechanisms.