Archive · 26 Jun 2025
Mon Shugu Revival: Arunachal Pradesh Paper Craft Thrives
Imagine a special paper called Mon Shugu made by hand from a plant's bark.
It's been used for centuries by the Monpa people in India.
But it almost disappeared!
Now, with help from the government and the community, people are making it again.
They're creating jobs, keeping their culture alive, and using an eco-friendly method.
This paper is very important because it shows the beauty of their culture and supports the local community.
Mon Shugu, a handmade paper, is crafted from the bark of the Daphne papyracea shrub.
The Monpa community revived the traditional art of Mon Shugu with government and KVIC support.
The revival aims to create sustainable livelihoods and promote eco-friendly practices.
The paper is used for religious manuscripts, calligraphy, and is eco-friendly.
Challenges include supply chain logistics and youth engagement.
- Who
- Monpa artisans and community, with support from KVIC and the Arunachal Pradesh government.
- What
- Revival of Mon Shugu, a handmade paper, crafted from Daphne papyracea bark.
- When
- Revival began in 2020.
- Where
- Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.
- Why
- To preserve cultural heritage, create sustainable livelihoods, and promote eco-friendly practices.
Challenges
Aspirations
Supply Chain and Digital Access
Challenges
Bark harvesting from high altitude regions is time consuming.
Aspirations
E-commerce is rising but courier links are not effective.
Youth Engagement
Challenges
Youth are migrating to cities.
Aspirations
Young champions are returning to preserve heritage.
- Paper Type
- Mon Shugu (handmade)
- Material
- Bark of Daphne papyracea shrub
- Location
- Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
- Key Players
- Monpa community, KVIC, Arunachal Pradesh government
- Primary Use
- Religious manuscripts, calligraphy
- Revival Date
- December 25, 2020
- Artisan Earnings
- ₹400 per sheet