Imphal, Dec. 30: The Department of Textiles, Commerce & Industry inaugurated a separate Directorate of Handlooms & Textiles as well as a Museum today at the Directorate Complex, Lamphel. Along with the inauguration of the Directorate, Handicrafts Cluster Projects under AHVY was also launched. Winners of State Awards were also felicitated and the Handloom & Handicrafts Policy was also released during the function. Govindas Konthoujam, Minister of Textiles, Commerce & Industry, O Nabakishore Singh, IAS- Chief Secretary, L Lakher, IAS- Principal Secretary( Textile, Commerce & Industry) and B John Tlangtinkhuma, IAS- Director of Trade, Commerce & Industries were present on the occasion as Chief Guest, Special Guest, President and Guest of Honour respectively. The Minister of Textiles, speaking on the occasion applauded the role of weavers and artisans in bringing about worldwide appreciation regarding the intricate and unique products from the state and stressed on the importance of Handloom in displaying the unique and diverse cultures practiced by different communities and ethnic groups in the state.