SAMARTH scheme launched for state weavers, artisans
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, June 25 2025: Directorate of Handloom and Textiles on Wednesday launched SAMARTH Scheme of Ministry of Textiles to facilitate capacity building for weavers and artisans of Manipur.

The scheme was launched by additional chief secretary (Textiles, Commerce & Industries) Anurag Bajpai, in an event organised by the Directorate at Lamboi Khongangkhong in the presence of director (Handloom & Textiles) E Jiten Singh, assistant director (Design) Beauty Mili, project manager, designers, Cluster Development Executive (CDEs) and textiles designers of Ministry of Textiles.

Speaking on the occasion, Anurag Bajpai emphasised the significance of the visionary programme launched by the government under the dynamic leadership of PM Narendra Modi for the enhancement of the income of weavers and artisans.

He envisaged the importance of such scheme in improving the technology, designing skills, usage of natural dyes and better access to larger market.

Bajpai also stressed the need for formation of producer groups and extend opportunities under UNNATI Scheme for developing an enterprise for such groups while noting that the weavers and artisans are facing challenges for transportation cost.

Reflecting on the RAMP Scheme, he maintained that the scheme will help ease the burden on the weavers and artisans, while also making their product cost-competitive at the same time.

The additional chief secretary also informed that the Department is working on a project for the development of Textile Park in the state in a time-bound manner in order to transform the unorganised sector into an organised entity.

In his speech, director E Jiten elaborated on the components of the SAMARTH Scheme, the benefits available for weavers and artisans, trades covered and proposed targets during the current year.

He informed that four important trades, namely Apparel, Handloom Weaving, Hand Dyeing, and Kouna Craft would be taken up at the Design Extension Centre, Porompat, and the Apparel & Garment Making Centre at Lamboi Khongangkhong.

"For this, applications have been received for the four trades and the selection committee has finalised the trainers and assistant trainers," he mentioned, adding that the training of first batch of 25 participants is underway in sewing machine operation for 300 hours (i.e., 50 working days).

The launch event also witnessed an exhibition on new products developed by the joint efforts of the CDEs and Textile Designer (TDs) engaged in 35 Cluster Development Programmes implemented in all districts of Manipur.

At present, one Mega Handloom Cluster in Imphal East and 34 Cluster Development Programmes sanctioned by the centre are under implementation.

Since April 2025, the Department has been developing new designs by bringing innovations with the help of 39 well-trained CDEs and TDs.

They have been tasked to come up with at least one new design every month with result of the efforts visible in the exhibition.

Comment