In the serene hills of Gethia village, Nainital, a quiet revolution is taking place. What started as a modest initiative by Kartavya Karma, a socially conscious organization led by Gaurav Agarwal, has now blossomed into a flourishing project that is changing lives and building a sustainable future. The Sustainable Stitches project brings together a group of 45 talented women artisans who create handcrafted fabric jewelry out of leftover textiles, tackling one of the largest causes of pollution—textile waste.
A Village Brimming with Talent
When Gaurav Agarwal first set foot in Gethia, he discovered something remarkable. The village was brimming with skillful women artisans, but there was no platform for them to showcase their talent. Despite their capabilities, these women had little opportunity to step into the professional world. Inspired by their craft and determined to make a difference, Gaurav started Sustainable Stitches with just two women artisans. The goal was simple: use their talent to create something beautiful while addressing the environmental issue of textile waste. Fast forward to today, the initiative has grown to involve over 120 women, giving them not just an income but a new sense of identity and pride.

Crafting a New Identity
The women of Gethia now create stunning handcrafted fabric jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and more. Every piece is made with intricate detail, from leftover fabric that would otherwise contribute to pollution. The healthy competition within the group has fueled creativity. One artisan might design a unique earring, sparking inspiration among others to create even more exquisite pieces. The outcome is a beautiful and diverse range of handcrafted jewelry that reflects not only the artisans’ skill but also their growing confidence.

This project has given these women wings to fly. They are no longer defined by the traditional roles society assigned to them. Instead, they have become the faces of a new movement. In the village, in markets, and even in banks, their work is recognized and respected. When a woman from the project visits the market, people often approach her, saying, “We saw you and know you’re associated with Kartavya Karma.” Bank managers and public officials, upon recognizing their work, offer help without hesitation. These seemingly small gestures are profound; they symbolize the respect these women have earned in their community and beyond.

Gethia: The Handicraft Village of Uttarakhand
The success of Sustainable Stitches has transformed Gethia into what is now known as the Handicraft Village of Uttarakhand. The fame of their work has even reached international platforms, with orders coming in from abroad. The village, once known for its scenic beauty, is now recognized for its artistry and sustainable model of income generation. This initiative is a testament to the power of eco-friendly craftsmanship and community-driven entrepreneurship.

A Sustainable Model for the Future
Sustainable Stitches is not just a project; it’s a sustainable model for rural economic development. What began as a small effort with two women has now empowered an entire village. Kartavya Karma is not stopping here. The organization is now working to replicate this model in other villages, focusing on different crafts to further enhance sustainability in rural economies across Uttarakhand.
The project proves that with the right support and platform, incredible things can happen. It’s about more than jewelry; it’s about restoring dignity, building confidence, and creating a sustainable future for generations to come.
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