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7.2. Water Hyacinth Craft

7.2.1. History

The history of Water Hyacinth Crafts was established in the later years, in 2016, 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. After a successful Banana Fibre Craft

initiative, Water Hyacinth Crafts were next in line. Converting this aquatic weed into economy
Thesis Report V-SPARC VIT
generating sustainable products now provides a livelihood to the women of Anegundi.
Currently, this craft is practiced in the same unit as the Banana Fiber crafts. While, the number

of people working this craft requires lesser comparatively.

7.2.2. Economic Value of Water Hyacinth

Water Hyacinth is the fast-growing aquatic weed that was introduced to India centuries ago.
Since Anegundi lies on the banks of majestic Tungabhadra River, water hyacinth grows

abundantly and is easily resourced. Each year, thousands of seeds are produced which remain
viable for 28 years. Thus, the growth of this invasive species is inevitable. The products made

out of water hyacinth fibres last upto 5 years and are extremely sustainable, therefore, there is

a growing demand for such crafts in today’s world.

7.2.3. Properties of Water Hyacinth
Water hyacinth fibre is extremely lightweight, non-toxic, completely biodegradable, has great

mechanical strength, tensile strength, and is eco-friendly.

Water Hyacinth possesses unique physical and chemical qualities, as well as a variety of other
qualities that distinguish it as a high-quality fibre. It has a long stalk like stem that is submerged

into water, which is further used for extracting fibres.

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