Rural and Tribal Development Foundation
About Us
Rural and Tribal Development Foundation (RTDF) is a community-oriented non-governmental organisation based at Muga Farm, Sualkuchi, Assam. With a focus on rural and tribal development, the Foundation seeks to contribute to the social and economic well-being of communities by encouraging sustainable livelihoods, education, skill development, and the preservation of traditional knowledge and cultural heritage.
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Located in Sualkuchi, a place renowned for its handloom and silk traditions, RTDF is connected to the region's rich heritage of Muga silk production and weaving. The Foundation's presence in this setting reflects the importance of supporting rural communities, traditional artisans, and local knowledge systems.
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RTDF has also been associated with initiatives that promote awareness of Geographical Indications (GI), Traditional Knowledge (TK), and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). In collaboration with the National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam, the organisation supported awareness and facilitation activities for local Muga silk producers and weavers.
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Through community engagement, knowledge-sharing, and development-oriented initiatives, RTDF aspires to help create opportunities for people in rural and tribal communities while contributing to the preservation of Assam's cultural and traditional heritage.
Rooted in Community. Inspired by Tradition.
Our Story
The story of Rural and Tribal Development Foundation is closely connected to the spirit of rural Assam and the rich cultural heritage of Sualkuchi.
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Sualkuchi is widely known for its handloom traditions and the craftsmanship of its silk weavers. Behind every traditional textile lies the knowledge, skill, and dedication of communities that have preserved these practices across generations. These traditions are not only a part of Assam's cultural identity but also an important source of livelihood for many rural families.
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It is in this wider setting of community, tradition, and rural enterprise that RTDF carries forward its development-oriented work. The Foundation's presence at Muga Farm, Sualkuchi, and its engagement with initiatives related to Muga silk, traditional knowledge, and intellectual property reflect the importance of empowering communities while protecting the heritage they sustain.
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A significant example of this engagement was RTDF's collaboration with the National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam, in 2023. The partnership supported an awareness programme on Geographical Indications, Traditional Knowledge, and Intellectual Property Rights for local Muga silk producers. This was followed by a Muga Silk GI Authorised User Registration Camp, which helped 14 local producers and weavers pursue registration as authorised users.
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These initiatives demonstrate how community development can be strengthened through education, awareness, institutional collaboration, and respect for traditional knowledge.
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RTDF's journey continues to be guided by the belief that meaningful development begins with the people and communities it serves. By encouraging opportunities, supporting local knowledge, and valuing the cultural heritage of Assam, the Foundation seeks to contribute to a more sustainable and empowered rural future.
Meet The Team
Arup Choudhury
Founder
Ashley Baruah
Manager