Imphal: The State’s first plastic industry was launch by two Manipuri engineering graduates, Samson Ningombam and Madonna Akoijam. The project is called PEARLEX Enterprises, the start-up aims to revolutionize the sector and promote self reliance.

Akoijam in an interview with newsmen said, “I wanted to do something different like contribute something to society where I can give employment to others. My ideology was more like rather than become an employee, I thought of becoming more like an employer. So, that way I got into this venture.”

The duo back in 2015 have set up a joint venture at Kwakeithel Nganappi Thong, in Imphal West, “Something always motivates me all the time that I wanted to do something different since childhood. Before, I was working inprivate company but later I was not satisfied so, I wanted to go back home and do something different that’s how I started this venture,” said Ningombam.

This current project initiated by the two is being assisted by the Central Institute of Plastics Engineering and Technology (CIPET) by providing machineries at nominal charges. As for now there are 15 members in the industry.

So far, they have produced three products – mug, tub and dustpan. They are now in the process of adding more products and to generate employment opportunities for jobless youngsters in the state, The Northeast Today reported.

“In Manipur, most of the plastic products come from Myanmar. So, I think, there is a huge scope in this project,” said Moiranthem Upendro, a student of CIPET.

Young entrepreneurs like Ningombam and Akoijam will inspire the educated unemployed youth in the region to explore innovative ideas and become self-reliant.