At a time when job market is not showing encouraging trends, several unemployed youths of Assam have set an example for others with their self-employment endeavours.
One such enthusiastic youth is Manash Pratim Phukan of No 1 Hiloidari village under the Dhakuakhana sub-division of Lakhimpur district.
He has become self-dependant by establishing a small industry of incense sticks.
By establishing the industry, named ‘Habung Dhupkathi, Manash Pratim has also created employment opportunities for many others.
After graduating in 2014, Manash tried for government jobs, but to no avail.
He worked in several private sector companies but did not get any job satisfaction.
Finally, he came back to his native village, giving up all hope of securing a government job.
Coming back home, Manash started the industry of incense sticks in October 2018 with the help of his father Bogen Phukan, mother Pallabi Phukan and with the suggestion of his uncle Pranjal Pratim Phukan.
At present, the hard-working youth has paved a way for the employment of several families of his village through the industry which will be completing two years in October next.
Manash said that he just underwent a one-day training of the domain in Guwahati to start the industry.
At present, six brands of incense sticks named Habung, Habung 2 in 1, Golap, Jasmin, Prarthana, and Utsav are manufactured in the industry and these brands have occupied places in the markets of Dhakuakhana, Dhemaji, and Majuli.
Manash said he imports the raw materials for his industry from a Guwahati-based company.
According to him the industry for making incense sticks is a profitable one that can be established in a small area with low capital and requires less labour.