'Handloom production low despite Govt initiatives'
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 26 2024: The State Handloom Expo (Hathkargha Mela), organised by the Manipur Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited (MHHDCL), concluded on Monday at Urban Haat, Nilakuthi.

The 14-day exhibition, sponsored by the office of the development commissioner (handloom), was aimed at promoting local artisans and their products, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of state's handloom and handicraft industry.

Weavers' Service Centre, deputy director Priyadarshi Daripa, MHHDCL general manager (administration) Th Basanta and national awardee Ksh Indira attended the closing ceremony of the exhibition as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.

In his address, Th Basanta highlighted the state government's policy mandating local handloom and handicraft products in furnishing all government offices and establishments.

This initiative aims to support local artisans and promote the unique cultural products of the state.

However, Basanta expressed concern over the current production rates, noting that they are still insufficient to meet the demand for local products for government offices.

There are not enough handloom and handicraft products to meet the requirement of using local products in all government offices, Basanta said and urged weavers and artisans to maximise their efforts in boosting production while maintaining high standards of quality.

Improving production will not only meet local demand but also enhance the socio-economic condition of our society, he added.

Basanta also emphasised the need for product diversification, pointing out that there are many talented designers in district clusters whose expertise could be invaluable to weavers seeking to expand their product range.

He encouraged weavers to collaborate with these designers to create a wider variety of products, which could appeal to a broader market and increase sales.

Looking ahead, he announced that starting from the next exhibition, there will be a more stringent screening process for participants.

Only products that have the official handloom mark and are produced by individuals with a valid weaver's ID card will be allowed in future expos.

Additionally, he revealed plans for a national handloom expo scheduled for December, which will provide a larger platform for local weavers and artisans to showcase their products to a wider audience.

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