Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio has proposed the regulation and organisation of the handloom and textile sector in the state.
Addressing an inter-departmental meeting on the promotion of handloom, textiles, and Naga designs at the chief minister’s residential complex, Kohima on Wednesday, Rio highlighted the significance of Naga culture, traditions, and vibrant traditional attire and stressed safeguarding and advancing these elements.
He underlined the distinctiveness of cultural and traditional designs that adorned Naga attire, garnering global intrigue. He called for establishment of a structured framework to regulate the textile industry within the state, with government facilitation of logistical support, expertise through training, and coherent marketing policies.
Proposing the creation of a state-level body, he emphasised its role in approving and overseeing the use of traditional designs for commercial purposes while ensuring quality control.
While preserving cultural heritage was pivotal, Rio acknowledged the importance of aligning with modern demands and adapting products to market needs. He stressed professionalism in production to maintain competitiveness in terms of quality and pricing across the nation.
Speaking on the occasion, Women Resource Development & Horticulture minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse noted the prevalence of imported textile products, even traditional ones, and called for training women in the latest weaving technologies for mass production. She also emphasised creating an environment conducive to designer creativity.
In her speech, Industries & Commerce adviser Hekani Jakhalu highlighted the requirement for a comprehensive textile policy and a digital portal for weaver data.
She underscored skill development, infrastructure enhancement for marketing, and collaboration with textile experts. Chief secretary J Alam called for preserving cultural heritage and preventing misappropriation. He raised concern over low weaver wages, suggesting a wage policy with a minimum wage determination. He said technical support groups and experts were essential for sector development, along with generic branding to protect and promote Nagaland’s unique identity.
Presentations were made by the departments of Women Resource Development and Industries & Commerce showcasing the current state of the textile sector.
In his speech, Investments & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) chairman Abu Metha outlined the opportunities in textile sector and the government’s role in offering technical and logistical support for a competitive global market.
The meeting concluded with an interactive session between state government officials and prominent figures from the textile sector in the state. This was stated in a DIPR release.