State Handloom Expo underway in Dimapur

A 14-day State Handloom Expo, sponsored by the Development Commissioner for Handlooms under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, commenced Tuesday at Diphupar Local Ground, Dimapur. The expo is being organised by the Nagaland Apex Weavers and Artisans Cooperative Federation Limited (NAW&ACF).
Inaugurating the event, WEAFED managing director, Gwaruno Khing, expressed gratitude to the Weavers’ Service Centre, Tulovi, Dimapur, for extending necessary assistance to the participants.
Highlighting the significance of the handloom sector, Khing said it remains one of the largest unorganised economic activities in India and carries a long tradition of outstanding craftsmanship that represents and preserves the country’s vibrant cultural heritage. He noted that Indian handloom artisans are globally recognised for their unique hand-spinning, weaving and printing styles, with most weavers and artisans based in small towns and villages where skills are passed down through generations.
He further stated that the Indian handloom industry is among the largest cottage industries in the country, with over 25 lakh looms, and is the second-largest employment provider in rural areas, engaging more than three million people in direct and allied activities.
Khing appealed to the participants to remain sincere and committed to their craft to ensure sustainable growth without over-dependence on financial agencies. He also encouraged buyers to visit the stalls, which will remain open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the expo.