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7. SPACE AND PROGRAM DERIVATION- CRAFTS

7.1. Banana Fibre Craft

7.1.1. History

The history of Banana Fibre Crafts was established in the year 1997, by Mrs. Shama Pawar as

an initiative to develop local livelihood opportunities for women based on the natural resources
of the region as a part of The Kishkinda Trust. What started with a group of 8 women is now a
Thesis Report V-SPARC VIT
firm practice supporting livelihoods of 150-200 women and generations of their families.

Currently the village has three banana fibre weaving units, the rope made from these fibres is

exported under the name of ‘TIKAU’ which works with a market linkage partner from Finland.

7.1.2. Economic Value of Banana Fibre

Banana is the second most important fruit crop in India next to mango. Its year-round
availability, affordability, and abundance in and around Anegundi makes it a reason of its

selection. It is logical that the generated banana stem fibre waste is converted to sustainable
artefacts, which have a good export value. Annually, about 1.5 million tons of dry banana fibres

can be produced from the outer sheath of pseudo stem.

7.1.3. Properties of Banana Fibre
Banana fibre is a natural fibre. Natural fibres provide several benefits, including low density,

suitable stiffness, mechanical qualities, and renewability. It is a strong fibre with moderately

high mechanical characteristics. Additionally, they are recyclable and biodegradable. There
has been much study on the use of these natural fibres in reinforcing. Banana fibre is a

lignocellulosic fibre derived from the pseudo-stem of the banana plant.

Banana fibre possesses unique physical and chemical qualities, as well as a variety of other
qualities that distinguish it as a high-quality fibre. It is a large perennial herb whose leaf sheaths

create a pseudo stem. Its height ranges from 10 to 40 feet and is surrounded by 8 to 12 big

leaves.

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