Mnp Gov calls for stronger handloom value chain, global market access

IMPHAL, AUG 7 (NPN): Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Friday called for a stronger and more modern handloom ecosystem while addressing the state‑level National Handloom Day 2026 celebration in Imphal.
The Governor urged strengthening the state’s entire handloom value chain through better infrastructure, quality certification, branding, digital commerce and enhanced market access. He emphasised that National Handloom Day was not only an occasion to honour the dedication of weavers but also an opportunity to reaffirm collective commitment to preserving and advancing Manipur’s handloom sector for future generations.
Hosted by the state department of textiles, commerce & industry under the theme “Threads of Tradition: Weaving Culture Through Handloom,” the programme celebrated the state’s rich handloom heritage and recognised the contributions of artisans.
Bhalla highlighted that the handloom sector embodies Manipur’s cultural identity while holding immense potential for economic growth and employment. Stressing the need to combine tradition with innovation, he called for reinforcing public awareness of GI‑tagged handloom products to protect authenticity, enhance value and expand reach in national and international markets. He noted that supporting the sector is vital for women‑led development, sustainable livelihoods and preservation of cultural legacy.
The event was attended by chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, chief secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, additional chief secretary (textiles, commerce & industry) Anurag Bajpai, Padma Shri recipient, National Handloom Awardees and other dignitaries.
Highlights included an exhibition of diverse handloom products, release of a Data Book on Handloom and a coffee table book titled “Threads of Heritage: Traditional & GI‑Tagged Handwoven Stoles of Manipur.” The Governor also conferred state awards on outstanding weavers and artisans for 2025–26, distributed financial assistance under government schemes, and felicitated winners of the Best Cluster Designer Award for Home Furnishing at the National Handloom Designers’ Conclave 2026.