Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 22 2010:
A 10-day long Apex Crafts Bazar (fair) organised by Manipur Apex Handloom Weavers & Handicrafts Artisans' Cooperative Society Ltd has begun from today at Lainingthou Puthiba Complex, khurai Lamlong Bazar after formal inauguration by Principal Secretary (Commerce & Industries) O Nabakishore Singh.
Inaugural programme of the Fair where handdicraft products are being put on display in 150 stalls, was also attended by Additional Registrar (Coop.
Societies) Joel Luikham and Assistant Director (Handicrafts) T Rollee Vareishim as the guests of honour.
While commending initiatives of NGOs in organising such a fair aimed at boosting morale of the weavers and handicraft artisans for enhanced production, O Nabakishore strongly suggested increasing number of similar fairs so as to expand reach and promotion of indigenous handloom products beyond the State's boundary.
Noting that of late there had been increase in demand for handicrafts and handloom products of Manipur, the chief guest called upon the weavers and artisans of Manipur avail materials and technological assistance being provided under various development programmes of the State's Commerce and Industries Dept.
Speaking at the inaugural session, Rollee Vareishim said there is need for the local artisans to keep in touch with the rapid advancement in the field of textile industries and its productivity.
He also cautioned stall owners/keepers to trade their wares at an affordable price as hiking the rate exorbitantly compared to availability of the same items at the market would render such a fair meaningless.