The directorate of handlooms and textiles was recently inaugurated at Lamphel, Imphal by the state commerce and industries minister Govindas Konthoujam. The newly launched directorate will promote the sales of handloom and handicraft products produced in Manipur. It will also help to enhance the quality of handicraft and handloom items.
The handloom and handicraft sector is one of the main economic contributors in Manipur. Under the Ambedkar Hastshilp Vikas Yojana (AHVY), handicraft cluster projects were also launched by Konthoujam along with a handicraft museum at the inaugural programme. AHVY aims to promote the handicraft sector by creating artisans who have capability to manage things professionally.
As per the Manipur Handlooms and Handicrafts policy 2016 that was released at the inaugural programme, 50 per cent of the state’s handloom and handicraft products will be sold to the state government while a mere 20 per cent will be given to private buyers, said the minister.
He also urged the weavers and artisans of Manipur to increase the quality of the handicraft and handloom products that will increase the scope of getting better price internationally. The state government will provide the required assistance to increase the production quality, according to a leading daily.
The programme also witnessed distribution of awards for distinguished contribution in handicraft and handloom sector. State handicraft and handloom awards were bagged by six persons for their outstanding contribution in the field. Incentives were also distributed to one state level handicraft cluster project and nine district level cluster projects. Konthoujam also handed over 10 merit awards to persons from handloom and handicraft sector.
