Imphal, April 09 2010: A one day buyer & seller meet cum exhibition organised by Manipur Apex Handloom Weavers & Handicraft Artisan CS Ltd under the sponsorship of Government of India and Government of Manipur was held here at Classic Hotel today.

Altogether 33 stalls were opened in the exhibition which was inaugurated by Additional Chief Secretary, Govt of Manipur PC Lawmkunga (IAS) as the chief guest.

Some of the stalls displayed during the exhibition are�Kumbi Handloom Cluster, Churachandpur Handloom, Kakching Handloom, Wabagai Maibam Leikai Handloom, Khurai Thoudam Leikai & Ahongei Handloom, Uchathon Handloom, Dimdailong Handloom, Wangkhei Konsam Leikai Handloom and Moirang Kangjeibung Handloom.

"To promote handloom products in domestic as well as in international market, the Govt of India is organising a trade fair every year on November 14 in Delhi, in which 45 handloom societies display their handloom products," the chief guest said, adding "Buyers are not only from the country but also from abroad " .

The quality and design of the products should be developed and enhanced to attract the buyers, he said.

If we can change the pattern of the products to the desire of people progress of handloom will be much faster, he added.

Principal Secretary, Commerce & Industries Nabakishore Singh (IAS) said, weaving being a way of life for most of the weavers who are economically week, handloom is the second most important sector in the State.

On the need to develop the present design of handloom, Nabakishore said, while there is a need to preserve the old designs which are still popular and in demand, motivation and improvement of infrastructure should be kept on top priority so that our weavers can meet in time the number of products demanded.

While tribal designs are attractive they are too expensive and as such there is a need to oversee the price if it is to the satisfaction of buyers, Secretary to the Governor PK Nimai (IAS) suggested.

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