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DIMAPUR— The Northeast region of India has been a cradle of artistry, with each state offering a unique and distinct style of handloom weaving, and Nagaland in particular holds a special place as an epitome of creativity and craftsmanship, wherein the precious legacy is passed down through generations, said Hekani Jakhalu, Advisor of Industries and Commerce.
The advisor was speaking on the occasion of the 9th National Handloom Day, organised by Weavers’ Service Centre, Dimapur in collaboration with the department of Industries and Commerce at Council hall in Toluvi Village, Dimapur, on Monday.
Addressing the gathering, Jakhalu said ‘the day marks the significance of handloom in their lives, not just as exquisite textile but as the very fabric that weaves the diverse tapestry of their cultural heritage together’.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]Nagaland has more than 42,000 weavers and 5,051 artisans as per the All India Handloom Census of 2019-2020, highlighting the immense contribution of the state’s handloom industry to the rich tapestry of the nation's heritage, she said.
The Northeast region is home to more than 1.5 million looms and over 2 million weavers and these staggering figures showcase the undeniable impact of the handloom sector in empowering the communities and contributing to the nation's economic growth, she added.
Jakhalu went on to say that ‘the world is beginning to recognise and appreciate the intricate craftsmanship and timeless beauty of Northeast handloom products, creating a global demand that resonates with the cultural heritage of our nation’.
‘The handloom sector in the Northeast continues to play a vital role in uplifting local economies, providing employment opportunities, and empowering communities,’ she said, while urging the gathering to celebrate the significance of preserving their cultural identity and promoting sustainable fashion by choosing handloom textiles.
‘Weavers need public support’
Also speaking at the event, Commissioner and Secretary of department of Industries and Commerce, Kekhrievor Kevichusa, highlighted the significant role of weavers in the society and their pivotal contribution to employment generation, economy, and preservation of handloom and handicraft tradition.
He emphasised the urgent need to provide a comprehensive support to the weavers and to guide them not only in promoting their products but also finding a place at the national and international markets.
Lamenting the challenges faced by many weavers due to not upgrading of skills, usage of outdated machinery, and insufficient market opportunities, he said these underlying issues are preventing them from succeeding despite numerous schemes launched for their benefit.
Kevichusa also made a fervent appeal to the public to extend their support, asserting that with collective efforts, weavers can significantly enhance commercialisation of their products, which will in turn boost production and propel the growth of the industry.
Highlighting the department's dedicated efforts in safeguarding and conserving handlooms and handicrafts, he said it encourages all tribes to embrace their traditional attire.
The department has been actively involved in providing financial and technical support to document their rich traditions, create comprehensive booklet and facilitated the process of obtaining the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, ensuring the recognition and protection of these invaluable cultural assets, said the official.
Also speaking at the event, the representative from Sericulture department said that it is focusing on the development of beautiful range of silk fabrics in loin loom as well as on frame loom, which will help generate self employment opportunities and uplift the rural economy.
The Sericulture department had trained more than 500 weavers last year under Samarth scheme and most of the weavers in Nagaland think that silk can be woven only in frame loom but it can be beautifully woven in loin loom as well which has high demand, it was informed. Director of Industries and Commerce, A Temjen Jamir delivered the keynote address and felicitated the recipients of National and Padmashri awardee, as well as gave away certificates and flying shuttle frame looms to Samarth trainees under Hatkargha Sambardhan Sahayata (HSS) scheme.
Also read: National Handloom Day celebrated at Chizami