Thampu Distributes Free Umbrellas to Attappady Tribal Students

Quick Summary

• Thampu, a national trust for tribal education and development, distributed free Karthumbi umbrellas to students of three tribal schools in Attappady.
• ESAF Foundation sponsored the umbrellas which are produced by tribal women under Thampu’s initiative.
• The distribution event was inaugurated by P.K. Binil at government UP School, Kottathara, attappady on Monday.
• Thampu began the production of Karthumbi umbrellas in 2013 after infant deaths were reported in Attappady, employing tribal women to create the products.
• Through this initiative, ₹50 lakh has been paid as wages directly into women’s bank accounts over time.
• The project was discussed as a model for female empowerment during the Prime Minister’s Mann Ki Baat programme (episode 1,111).
• In 2025 alone, 20,000 Karthumbi umbrellas have been distributed or sold. Plans include expanding into other products like honey and millets under the Thampu banner and forming a farmer producer company with tribal farmers.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The umbrella distribution initiative showcases how social enterprise programs can bring tangible benefits to marginalized communities while addressing broader developmental goals such as education support and women empowerment. By employing local skills for manufacturing goods like umbrellas-which are being marketed widely-this program not only creates sustainable livelihoods but strengthens financial independence among tribal women through direct wage disbursement.

Further diversification of products might enhance their economic potential and visibility across wider markets; though, success will hinge on effective implementation strategies that are inclusive of all stakeholders within these communities. This model demonstrates that localized grassroots initiatives supported by external sponsors can play critical roles in bridging gaps left unaddressed by mainstream systems.

Read more: Published – September 08, 2025