‘Thambu Vanavasi Koottayma’, the group of tribal artisans behind ‘Karthumbi Umbrellas’, are excited about their product being mentioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his monthly radio program, Mann Ki Baat, today. The production of Karthumbi umbrellas commenced about ten years ago under the group, aiming to provide income to tribal women of Attappadi in Palakkad District of Kerala. About 750 women from different tribal villages of Attapadi were trained in umbrella making. Attapadi’s own ‘Karthumbi’ brand of colourful umbrellas has now become a source of income for tribal women. Initially, the umbrellas were produced to meet purchase orders from various government institutions and schools, but gradually they became available in the open market and online platforms. The tribal group now cherishes the hope that the Prime Minister mentioning Karthumbi umbrellas in Mann Ki Baat will significantly boost the demand for these beautiful umbrellas. K.A. Raju, who heads ‘Thambu Vanavasi Koottayma’, has expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister in this regard.