CRPF's Civic Action Programmes empower artisans, vulnerable communities
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 12 2026: The Central Reserve Police Force's Civic Action Programmes continue to foster community development, bridge the gap between security forces and civilians, and provide tangible economic opportunities to the youth and artisans of the region.

These initiatives aim to promote self-reliance, generate livelihood opportunities, and strengthen community ties in conflict-affected and remote regions, especially in Manipur.

Today, in a significant move toward empowering the local artisan community, the 109 Battalion Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) officially inaugurated a 30-Day Specialized Training Program on Jacquard Weaving at the Hiyangthang Common Facility Centre (CFC) in Imphal.

The inaugural function was graced by dignitaries, including W Ibohal Singh, Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Manipur; E Jeeten Singh, Director of Handlooms & Textiles, Manipur; and Arvind Singh Yadav, Second-In-Command, 109 Bn CRPF.

Speaking on the occasion, E Jiten Singh highlighted the Government's commitment to modernizing the State's vibrant textile industry.

W Ibohal Singh spoke on the vital role of the cooperative spirit in ensuring sustainable livelihoods for rural artisans.

Arvind Singh Yadav shared that the initiative, organised under the Civic Action Programme, aims to modernize traditional weaving practices by introducing advanced technology to local weavers.

"By mastering the Jacquard loom, our weavers will transition from traditional craftsmanship to high-value production.

This training is a bridge that will allow our artisans to compete effectively in both national and international markets", he added.

The intensive 30-Day Training Programme is designed to equip 30 selected trainees with the technical proficiency required to operate Jacquard looms.

Unlike traditional methods, Jacquard technology allows for the creation of highly intricate and complex patterns with greater speed and precision.

To ensure the highest standard of vocational training, the CRPF has partnered with the Manipur Apex Handloom & Handicrafts Artisans CS Ltd (AWAS), which has provided two Master Trainers to lead the curriculum.

These experts will provide hands-on guidance, focusing on design complexity and efficiency.

152 Battalion CRPF

In a commendable initiative to support vulnerable communities, Dett 152 Battalion CRPF, organised a Civic Action Program at Kanglatongbi, Imphal West, under the aegis of IG, CRPF, Manipur & Nagaland Sector.

The programme was focused on empowering Internally Displaced Persons through the distribution of candle-making machines and agarbatti making machines for livelihood enhancement and economic empowerment of the youth.

H Premjit Meitei, DIG Range Imphal, graced the occasion as the chief guest.

The programme was also attended by Suresh Kumar, Second-In-Command, 152 Bn CRPF; Th Merna Devi, AC; Jasmat Kumar, AC; Deepak Kumar, AC, 152 Bn CRPF; Dr Basudev Singh, founder president, United Youth Club, Kanglatongbi; Ngangbam Jeevan Meetei, secretary, Mantriband Development Committee; Meena Bista, village head; Wareppam Ibemcha Devi, ex-Member, Mantriband Ward, Kanglatongbi Gram Panchayat and other dignitaries.

The event was enlivened by a vibrant dance performance by local artists, fostering community spirit and cultural exchange.

The villagers and local authorities expressed heartfelt gratitude for the welfare initiatives of the CRPF.

The initiatives demonstrated the CRPF's role beyond security operations, acting as a vital pillar of support and development in local communities.

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