A major textile conclave is set to take place in Guwahati, spearheaded by the Indian government, with the aim of revitalizing the handloom and handicraft sectors of Northeast India. This announcement comes from Pabitra Margherita, Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, during a recent visit to the Barak Valley.
The conclave will bring together key players from across the region, including government departments from all Northeastern states, industry agencies, and social organizations connected to the textile industry. The focus is on forging new paths for development and providing much-needed support to artisans and weavers.
Minister Margherita highlighted Assam’s unique position, particularly in the production of Muga silk, a rare and highly prized textile found exclusively in the region. He expressed optimism that the conclave would leverage this unique asset, fostering growth and providing new opportunities for those involved in the sector. He stated that Assam produces Muga, which is found nowhere else, emphasizing the region’s self-reliance in this regard. He further expressed his optimism that the conclave would develop new avenues to significantly boost the handloom and handicraft sectors and motivate the people involved.
A key objective of the conclave is to expand market access for local weavers and artisans. The government aims to create robust platforms for sales and, crucially, to open new global export avenues for handloom and handicraft products from the Northeast. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy of positioning the Northeast as a gateway to ASEAN countries. Minister Margherita also highlighted the potential for establishing weaving and apparel manufacturing plants in the region, further strengthening its textile industry.
Discussions are already underway to specifically support the handicraft sector in the Barak Valley. Minister Margherita confirmed discussions with Kaushik Rai, Minister of the Barak Valley Department, regarding initiatives to further encourage local weavers. The upcoming conclave promises to be a significant event for the Indian textile industry, with a particular focus on empowering the rich textile traditions of Northeast India and connecting them to global markets.
