Brochure of Vocational Training for Mentally Handicapped : Chapter VIII
SPINNING WITH AMBAR CHARKHA
SPINNING may be defined as, “an act of twisting fibrous substances into strands of yarn fitted for weaving”. The Dictionary meaning of “SPINNING”, `is the act or process of converting fibrous substance into yarn or thread.’ Cotton is a fibrous substance. It is also being grown in Egypt, India, China, Russia, Brazil and other warm countries. it is one of the most important fibrous raw materials in the textile industry; because, it is versatile.
“Spinning”, is an art of drawing out and twisting textile materials into threads either by hand or by machinery.” It is one of the earliest human invention. Many historians say that it was in 1530 the spinning wheel was invented in Egypt and thereafter, it was introduced in England – though in India the rough cloth was used by the then people of 13th Century. Hence, the birth of yarn must have taken place earlier than 13th Century.
“Ambar Charkha of 2 Spindle”, is most suited to spin yarn by the mentally handicapped students/persons. Though, they are able to manage only one spindle. It is mainly to create employment opportunity to Profound and Severe grade of mental handicap under shelter workshop. It is not only a safe occupation but also it is easy to operate. The production of yarn, in one spindle is not that remunerative, but it is a boon to keep Profound and Severely mentally handicapped students busy or occupy their minds. A good amount of incentives may be given to them to keep up their interest. Payments to the handicapped workers may be considered not only on the basis of the quantity one produces, but also how long one is occupied in this job, in a day, without any problem. This Ambar Charkha can be used as a self employment tool and may at a later stage one may improve the quality of life by earning a little more.
Mr. Ekambaram from Tamil Nadu (Coimbatore) invented the Charkha. Thereafter, it is named after him as “AMBAR CHARKHA”. Details of 2 spindle Ambar Charkha are mentioned towards the end of this chapter.