PRAYAGRAJ, May 17 -- Traditional terracotta art in Prayagraj is emerging as a tool of women empowerment and rural self-reliance, with women-led groups converting clay into sustainable livelihoods. Women linked to the "Saptrangi" self-help groups (SHG) are crafting jewellery, bangles, earrings, diyas, decorative items and miniature houses, creating income opportunities along with growing confidence. Over 100 women are associated with the initiative, blending traditional skills with modern designs and institutional backing. Officials said the effort is helping women achieve financial independence while preserving cultural heritage. Pratibha Srivastava, project officer, District Urban Development Agency (DUDA), Prayagraj, said terracotta craft has become a strong source of employment for both urban and rural women. She said members are using clay and waste materials to produce innovative, market-ready products. The group is led by Namita Singh, who started linking women with self-help groups in 2022 after completing her BEd in 2021. The group began producing terracotta and recycled items such as jewellery, decorative crafts, diyas and miniature houses. "These products are gaining rapid popularity in the market because of their unique beauty and traditional appeal," said Namita Singh, a resident of Mumfordganj. Women earn honorariums based on production and sales, helping them become economically stable. The group saves around Rs 25,000 every month, while over 100 rural women are earning nearly Rs 15,000 monthly through the initiative. The effort reflects the growing role of SHGs in Prayagraj, where over 3 lakh rural women are linked to the initiative. The administration has set a target of reaching 5 lakh women by year-end to boost women-led entrepreneurship. Across UP, steps are being taken to promote terracotta and pottery, offering economic support to artisans, particularly from the Prajapati community. In Prayagraj, a mix of red terracotta and black pottery is gaining a distinct identity in the handicrafts market, especially in Sikandra and nearby areas....