Crafting Hope: Patgungin’s Journey from Turmoil to Triumph with Oasis India
Meet Patgungin, a 15-year-old boy from Haotak Vajang, Churachandpur, Manipur. He faced a difficult situation when ethnic violence hit Manipur on May 3, 2023. Despite the challenges, Patgungin, the third son of Letjangam, remains a dedicated 7th-grade student at Gandhi Memorial High School, Molnom, Churachandpur.
Before the displacement, Patgungin’s parents were hardworking farmers. Now, with the chaos surrounding them, Patgungin’s resilience shines through, thanks to Oasis India and their Nano IDPs Livelihood program. They provided him with materials for handicrafts, and he used his creativity to make 15 artificial trees, earning over Rs. 25,000 (INR).
With this support, Patgungin invested Rs. 3,000 back into his craft, meeting the increasing demand. Currently, he’s working on crafting five more artificial flowers for a customer. Beyond his personal goals, Patgungin takes on the responsibility of funding his own school admission for the new session.
The income from the Nano Livelihood program not only supports his education but also addresses essential needs at home. His family uses the earnings for hygiene kits, warm winter clothes, and medicine for his father, a former TB patient. This financial help is crucial for his family during these tough times.
Grateful for the opportunity, Patgungin expresses his heartfelt thanks to Oasis India for providing the materials that allowed him to create artificial trees. The income from his craft has become a source of hope for his family, easing their burdens. With optimism, he wishes for Oasis India’s staff to continue their dedicated service to those in need, especially within communities, in the days ahead.