Nagaland: Rio launches key documents to boost Naga artisanal economy

Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio on December 1, launched two major documents aimed at strengthening Nagaland’s artisanal sector- PM Vishwakarma Nagaland Product Catalogue and Crafting Cultural Futures: A Study on the Artisanal Economy in Nagaland under PM Vishwakarma, a DIPR report stated.
The launch programme was held in the presence of advisor for Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, secretary Industries & Commerce, Kumar Ramnikant, and director Industries & Commerce, P. Tokugha Sema.
The PM Vishwakarma Nagaland Product Catalogue, developed by the Department of Industries & Commerce, is the first comprehensive compilation of handcrafted products made by artisans trained under the PM Vishwakarma scheme. It showcases a wide variety of items across trades such as carpentry, basket weaving, doll and toy making, tailoring and others.
Aimed at improving market visibility, the catalogue seeks to connect artisans with buyers, promote retail and institutional sourcing, and facilitate customised or bulk orders. The department stated that the catalogue reflects the State government’s commitment to promoting traditional craftsmanship, fostering artisan entrepreneurship and expanding market opportunities for Naga craft sectors.
The second document- Crafting Cultural Futures- is a detailed study analysing the artisanal economy in Nagaland under the PM Vishwakarma programme. The report documents the experiences of trained artisans, assesses customer preferences for handicraft products, and evaluates existing institutional support mechanisms and market channels in the State.
The study highlights the strong cultural roots of Naga craftsmanship while identifying structural challenges faced by artisans, such as gaps in product design, branding, packaging, digital literacy and access to formal markets, including e-commerce platforms.
It also notes a rising consumer interest in aesthetically appealing, meaningful and locally crafted products, especially for gifting. Based on field data collected from artisans, customers and institutions, the report outlines recommendations to strengthen product development, expand market access, ensure quality assurance and improve convergence between relevant departments. The launch of these two documents marks an important step towards empowering Naga artisans and advancing a vibrant craft economy that reflects the State’s cultural heritage.