District Handloom Expo launched
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 26 2022:
A 7-day District Handloom Expo has been launched by the Manipur Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited (MHHDCL) at its office complex at Paona Bazar today.
Speaking at the opening ceremony as chief guest, MHHDCL Managing Director E Jeeten said weavers in Manipur should not worry about markets to sell their products.
The corporation will buy their products and also find markets for them.
Ritual, cultural and traditional clothes handloom products have been produced in large numbers and are already readily available in bulk at Ema Market.
However, production of high end products is low.
For example, it is hard to find even only 20 silk sarees, he said, adding that the weavers should also focus on producing such high end products which are in high demand.
There is a need for product diversification and classification to ensure the growth of the local weavers, he added.
"The trans Asian Highway and Railways will soon become fully operational transversing the State and connecting it with the rest of the world.
When that happens, our handloom industries should be ready.
Otherwise, we will not be able to compete with the outside markets and lose the race," he said.
Manipur handloom products have received praises and are very popular among the people from outside Manipur.
It was very popular among the visitors of the recently held MANITEX and the visitors now at Manipur Sangai Festival.
However, the visitors often find the prices of the handloom products somewhat steep, he said.
Manipur Government is organising a National Handloom Expo at New Delhi next month and some States have expressed their willingness to participate in the expo.
The expo will showcase and promote Manipur handloom products and also help exchange products and ideas with other States, Jeeten added.
Weavers Service Centre, Imphal Deputy Director HK Baro said the centre was opened to help women and weavers learn weaving, dying and designing of handloom products as well as carry out research and development.
Manipur handloom products are popular and have high export potential.
However, there is some work needed in terms of product diversification, finishing and packaging, he said.
The servicing centre is always ready to guide and assist weavers, he added.
He also urged weavers to use natural dyes only.
The expo is being sponsored by the Development Commissioner for Handloom, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
National Awardee (Handloom) K Medha and Imphal East Project Manager Th Ibemcha also attended the event.