MULTAN: The tradition of homemade mango pickle, once a thriving source of income for rural women across Pakistan, is gradually fading as commercial entities dominate its production. Traditionally prepared during mango season, this delicacy not only served as a staple in households but also provided economic sustenance through local sales and gifting.
In rural communities, women mastered the art of pickle preparation, employing age-old techniques to preserve mangoes with ingredients like kalonji, fenugreek, and cinnamon. These homemade recipes not only enhanced taste but also offered health benefits, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Shahid Hameed Bhutta, a farmer, laments the decline of this cottage industry, highlighting its potential for economic empowerment. He advocates for training programs to modernize production techniques, suggesting that initiatives by agencies like the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) could revive local pickle production as a viable cottage industry. Bhutta envisions a scenario where rural women can benefit from both domestic sales and export opportunities to global markets.
Malik Arif, another farmer, proposes utilizing rejected mangoes for pickle production, thereby reducing postharvest losses and generating income. He emphasizes the economic potential of small-scale commercial pickle production, especially beneficial for female entrepreneurs in rural areas.
Echoing sentiments of nostalgia, Ejaz Ahmed, a shopkeeper, recalls how the demand for homemade pickle transformed a household tradition into a profitable business. He underscores the product’s popularity among all socio-economic classes, particularly noting its affordability and nutritional value for low-income groups.
Despite the challenges posed by commercialization, there are calls to preserve and promote the cultural heritage associated with homemade pickle production. Advocates argue that reviving cottage industries, not limited to pickle-making, could empower marginalized groups, reduce unemployment, and stimulate economic growth at the grassroots level.
Ultimately, the resurgence of cottage industries like homemade pickle production holds promise not only for preserving cultural traditions but also for fostering economic resilience and inclusivity in Pakistan. By supporting initiatives that empower rural women and promote local entrepreneurship, policymakers can revitalize these age-old practices, turning them into sustainable sources of income and community pride once again.
