Silence began by selling these hand-painted cards at various local exhibitions, fairs and get-togethers. In 1995, Silence became a member of IFAT (International Federation for Alternative Trade) and was introduced into the international fair trade market. This was a gateway for the organization to explore new products, skills and techniques for its artisans. In the past 17 years, Silence products have been well-received in the fair trade export market. Apart from hand-painted cards, Silence is known to create several handmade products such as decorative candles, incense sticks, woodcraft items, jewelry and papier maché ornaments.
A three storied building located in a bustling part of South Kolkata is the Silence training center. Each year Silence trains about 30 students with various disabilities in areas such as commercial art, painting/craft and computer knowledge. These students are provided free training for 6 moths to a year and, with these qualifications, the students either step out into the world of opportunities, or become part of the Silence production team.
Apart from running a training center for new students, Silence works on several welfare schemes for its member artisans. The artisans involved with Silence are paid a fair wage, healthcare and medical facilities, monthly savings and a life insurance policy.
With its growing number of artisans and a range of beautiful products, Silence has been able to support itself and its members successfully over the years. Today, Silence stands strong with 200 artisans, a workshop, a training center and a retail outlet in Kolkata, with new plans and agendas to grow in number and size.
