RCS calls for quality in handloom products to preserve Manipur's identity
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 01 2026: Registrar of Cooperative Societies (RCS) W Ibohal has urged weavers to produce high-quality traditional textiles that reflect Manipur's identity, stressing that heritage products must not lose out to the market.

He was speaking at the closing function of the five-day District Handloom Expo, Tana Bana 2026, held at Urban Haat, Nilakuthi, since June 26.The expo was organised by the Manipur Apex Handloom Weavers & Handicrafts Artisans Cooperative Society Ltd (AWAS) with support from the Development Commissioner for Handlooms, Ministry of Textiles.

W Ibohal said traditional weaves like Leirung phi should be made with improved quality and design.

"Manipur is not behind in handlooms.

In almost every home there is a loom, and weaving by women is part of our tradition.

This must be strengthened", he said.

Noting that each community has distinct attire, he said Manipur's products are fine but the State must study why it is not leading nationally and meeting global demand, and work to improve.

He added that weavers remain economically vulnerable and need welfare support.

AWAS should initiate steps to extend health insurance benefits to them, he said.

Y Premchandra Meitei, Chairman (AWAS); Ksh Indira, National Awardee; and Beauty Milli, Assistant Director (Design), WSC, Imphal attended as presidium members.

About 50 stalls took part in the expo, recording sales worth around Rs 25 lakh over five days.

Comment