This is our contribution to saving the planet. We’ve learnt to say ‘No’ to plastic. Instead, we’ve learnt how to make handicrafts, bags and other knick-knacks with palm leaves. Us oldies have been making these products since our childhood. When Srinivasan Services Trust (SST) came to this village, they were interested in what we were doing as a means to empower other young women to earn a living. We’ve been training them but we’ve also learnt a lot of new designs and techniques from them. Since our products are sold locally, we’re all earning enough to sustain ourselves and our families.

— Women of Srivaikundam, Thoothukudi