State launches handloom cluster near Keibul Lamjao National Park
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 06 2025: In a major step toward integrating cultural preservation with sustainable tourism, additional chief secretary Anurag Bajpai on Saturday launched a new handloom cluster initiative near Keibul Lamjao National Park in Bishnupur district.

The project, which is a joint initiative of the textiles, commerce and industries department and the forest department, aims to promote eco-tourism while empowering local women and conserving the environment.

Located in Bishnupur district, Keibul Lamjao National Park is globally renowned as the world's only floating national park and home to the endangered Sangai deer, Manipur's state animal.

The park forms part of the larger Loktak Lake ecosystem, a vital freshwater body known for its unique phumdis - floating masses of vegetation that support both wildlife and human livelihoods.

The newly launched handloom cluster is being set up in Keibul village, adjacent to the park, and will involve 25 local women artisans who will receive 15 days of intensive training in modern weaving techniques.

The training programme covers advanced design methods, colour combinations, and product development to make the handloom items more appealing in wider markets.

Each participant will receive a daily stipend of Rs 300 during the training period.

Anurag Bajpai said that the initiative goes beyond skill-building and aims to provide economic opportunities by connecting traditional craftsmanship with the growing eco-tourism sector.

The state government has committed to procuring the products created during training, giving the women artisans both market exposure and direct income.

Exposure visits to established handloom hubs, such as Moirang cluster, are also part of the programme, offering participants practical insights into industry standards and practices.

The integration of handloom sector with eco-tourism is part of a broad er strategy to position Manipur as a model for sustainable development in Northeast India.

The project will also support the creation of tourist-friendly infrastructure such as nature guide services, souvenir shops, photography studios and battery-operated carts to ease access around the national park.

These additions are expected to enhance the visitor experience while ensuring minimal ecological impact.

He said that the cultural and ecological significance of Keibul Lamjao makes it an ideal focal point for such a venture.

The floating national park's fragile ecosystem is a magnet for researchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

However, balancing conservation with community welfare has long been a challenge.

By involving locals, especially women, in economic activities that align with conservation goals, the initiative seeks to establish a replicable model of inclusive development.

Loktak Lake and its surroundings are already recognised for their environmental sensitivity.

The new handloom cluster is a timely intervention that not only helps preserve traditional craft but also discourages unsustainable economic practices around the lake, such as unregulated fishing or land conversion.

The additional chief secretary highlighted the importance of community engagement in preserving both the lake and the park.

The initiative is also in alignment with the Chief Minister's Yarn Scheme and other handloom promotion policies aimed at reviving Manipur's textile traditions.

With eco-tourism gaining traction in the region, he said that the plan is to scale up such models in other parts of the state, especially those with rich natural or cultural heritage.

If successful, the Keibul cluster could serve as a blueprint for combining conservation, tourism and traditional livelihoods in a way that benefits both people and nature, he added.

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