The 26th State Handloom Day was observed today at the Conference Hall of the State Central Library, Imphal, with a strong emphasis on promoting traditional handloom weaving and supporting local artisans. The event, organised by the Handlooms Promotion Council, Manipur, honoured 67 weavers with the Handloom Awards 2025 in recognition of their contribution to preserving indigenous textile craftsmanship.
Director of Handlooms and Textiles, Government of Manipur, Elangbam Jeeten, who attended as chief guest, reiterated the department’s commitment to ensuring fair market access for locally produced fabrics and traditional textiles. He highlighted that periodic subsidy schemes are being introduced to assist weavers in obtaining raw materials at affordable prices. The director added that discounts of up to 30% on raw materials are being provided under the new scheme to reduce production costs for artisans.
Earlier, a Buy Back Policy was in place, but this has now been phased out in favour of a raw material subsidy scheme. Jeeten also mentioned that the local fabrics being produced are recognised as traditional textiles and hold immense cultural and economic value.
National Awardee Mayanglambam Radhamani and Senior Officer of the Weaver’s Service Centre, Imphal, Beauty Lily, were also present as presidium members. They, along with other speakers, encouraged rural artisans to continue their craft and stressed the need for market exposure and government support to help the handloom sector flourish.