A doctoral scholar from Manipur University has drawn national attention after transforming a modest Rs 3,000 investment into a handicraft enterprise projected to achieve a turnover of Rs 3 crore. The achievement earned her an invitation to Rashtrapati Bhavan, where she met President Droupadi Murmu on May 19.
Sanju Akoijam, a PhD scholar in the Department of Economics at Manipur University in Canchipur, represented Manipur during a special interaction involving artisans and weavers from northeastern states.
Her journey from a small entrepreneurial experiment to a rapidly expanding business has become a story of innovation, persistence, and the growing visibility of traditional crafts from the Northeast.
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From a Small Investment to a Growing Enterprise
Sanju Akoijam’s entrepreneurial journey began with an initial investment of only Rs 3,000.
What started as a small initiative eventually developed into a handicraft business centred around Kauna grass, a traditional natural material widely known in Manipur for producing handmade products.
Over time, the venture expanded through consistent product development, market outreach, and growing consumer interest in handcrafted and sustainable goods.
According to reports, the enterprise is now projected to reach a turnover of Rs 3 crore, marking a remarkable transformation from its early beginnings.
The growth also highlights the increasing commercial potential of traditional crafts when combined with entrepreneurship and organised business practices.
Recognition at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Sanju’s success received national recognition when she was invited to meet President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 19.
She participated in a special interaction programme involving artisans and weavers from different northeastern states.
Officials noted that the interaction created an opportunity for participants to share experiences, present their work, and discuss the role of traditional industries in strengthening local economies.
For Sanju, the invitation represented recognition not only of individual achievement but also of the cultural and entrepreneurial potential of Manipur’s craft sector.
Her participation also brought attention to women-led enterprise development in the region.
Sole Woman Representative From Manipur
During the interaction, Sanju Akoijam represented Manipur as the only woman participant from the state.
Her inclusion reflected both her entrepreneurial success and her contribution to preserving and promoting traditional craft practices.
Officials stated that the gathering brought together individuals working in sectors linked to weaving, handicrafts, and cultural industries.
The representation highlighted the role of women in strengthening local industries and expanding market opportunities.
Observers noted that recognition at the national level can encourage greater participation among women entrepreneurs and craft producers.
Her achievement also demonstrated how traditional skills can evolve into scalable business models.
Kauna Craft Gains Wider Visibility
Kauna grass crafts have long formed part of Manipur’s traditional handicraft heritage.
Artisans use the material to create handmade products that combine utility with traditional design practices.
Sanju’s venture helped bring greater visibility to Kauna-based products and introduced them to wider audiences.
Officials observed that consumer interest in handmade and sustainable products continues to create new opportunities for local enterprises.
The growth of Kauna craft businesses also supports cultural preservation while generating economic activity.
Entrepreneurs working in traditional sectors increasingly seek ways to combine heritage with modern business approaches.
Sanju’s journey reflects that changing landscape.
Republic Day Showcase Opened New Opportunities
Before meeting the President, Sanju and other artisans had earlier participated in a special showcase during the Republic Day ‘At Home’ reception hosted at Rashtrapati Bhavan in January.
During the event, participants displayed Kauna grass products and traditional handmade crafts from the Northeast.
The showcase created a platform for artisans to present regional craftsmanship to a national audience.
Officials stated that such opportunities strengthen visibility and help connect local producers with broader markets.
For participants, the event also created exposure to new audiences and highlighted the value of traditional industries.
The Republic Day participation marked another important milestone in Sanju’s entrepreneurial journey.
Balancing Academic Research and Entrepreneurship
Alongside managing a growing enterprise, Sanju continues her doctoral studies in economics.
Her journey demonstrates how academic learning and entrepreneurship can complement each other.
Observers noted that research and analytical skills often support decision-making and long-term business planning.
Managing both academic responsibilities and business development requires discipline and sustained effort.
Her experience also reflects a broader trend of young entrepreneurs combining education with innovation.
Officials stated that encouraging such models can strengthen local enterprise ecosystems and create new opportunities.
The combination of scholarship and entrepreneurship has become one of the defining aspects of her story.
Traditional Industries Creating New Economic Pathways
The growth of Sanju’s venture has also highlighted the broader economic potential of traditional industries.
Handicrafts and handmade products continue to support livelihoods across many parts of the Northeast.
Officials believe local industries can create employment opportunities while preserving cultural identity.
The increasing visibility of regional products has encouraged discussions around market access, branding, and enterprise support.
Traditional sectors now increasingly attract younger entrepreneurs interested in combining culture with business.
Examples like Sanju’s demonstrate how small initiatives can grow into sustainable enterprises over time.
Inspiration for Youth and Women Entrepreneurs
Sanju Akoijam’s journey from a Rs 3,000 investment to a projected Rs 3 crore enterprise offers an example of how determination and innovation can create significant opportunities.
Her recognition at Rashtrapati Bhavan reflects growing national attention toward entrepreneurship emerging from the Northeast.
Observers stated that stories like hers can encourage more students and young professionals to explore enterprise creation.
Her achievement also highlights the role women continue to play in expanding local economies and preserving traditional knowledge.
Officials believe such examples can inspire wider participation in entrepreneurship and strengthen confidence among aspiring business founders.
As traditional industries continue evolving, stories like Sanju’s illustrate how local resources, cultural knowledge, and sustained effort can create national recognition and economic growth.
From university research halls to a meeting with the President of India, her journey reflects the expanding possibilities emerging from Manipur’s entrepreneurial landscape.
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