Festival fair begins
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 08 2011:
An exhibition cum sale of handloom products themed 'Sajibu Gi Khudol Festive Fair 2011' has been inaugurated by Principal Secretary of Commerce and Industries, Govt of Manipur O Nabakishore Singh at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen today.
The fair to be held for six days is organised by Manipur Apex Handloom Weavers and Handicraft Artisans' Cooperative Society Limited under the sponsorship of Commerce and Industries Department, Govt of Manipur.
Presenting the key note address, representative of the Fair organisers L Ojit said aim of the event is to provide a common platform to the local artisans display indigenous handloom and handicraft products as well as to facilitate customers purchase these items at affordable prices without compromising the quality.
He declared that unlike handloom products such as khudei and phanek available in the market that either fades quickly or the size shrinks, produce on sale at the Fair will be not only be cheaper but will also be of high quality.
Highlighting that 33 percent of the adult population in India are involved in the handloom and handicraft sector, he said in Manipur weaving activities is dominated by the womenfolk with many of them students.
In his address as the chief guest, O Nabakishore said for development of handloom and handicraft sector in Manipur a proposal had been sent to Ministry of Textiles for necessary assistance which is likely to evoke positive response.
Stating that there are over 2000 weavers under the Manipur Apex Handloom Weavers and Handicrafts Artisans' Society, the Principal secretary called upon these members for constant interaction and mutual consultation to promote handloom and handicraft industries.