SHILLONG, Sep 14: The Meghalaya government will set up a high-class and well-designed emporium in the national capital to showcase products of the state created by local artisans.
Informing this at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Khadi Plaza here, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma stated that the upcoming emporium will be better than many others in the country.
The CM hinted that similar emporiums will also be set up in other parts of the country provided the idea of setting up one in New Delhi is successful.
Stating that tourists who come to Shillong fail to find an outlet to buy local products, Conrad maintained that the Khadi Plaza will benefit the state and the local artisans, in particular.
The foundation stone for the ₹2.73-crore Khadi Plaza at Barik was laid by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Tuesday. The project is funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC) and the implementing agency is Meghalaya Industrial Development Corporation Limited (MIDCL).
The proposed building is an RCC frame type structure with G+3 storey building with components for handicraft products, honey and food products, leather goods, cosmetic products, readymade garments, cloth items, jute and carpet and blacksmith items.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister stated that the Meghalaya government has always stressed on giving a push to nano and micro entrepreneurs and artisans to work in an enterprising manner and create value to their business.
“The lack of studios and emporiums and also the lack of access to commercial urban markets is often a hindrance to the entrepreneurs and artisans who are unable to translate their talents into a successful enterprise…having such an outlet would also help tourists who visit the state to buy local products,” he said.
The chief minister has emphasised that the building itself can be an iconic structure showcasing the local produce and artistry of the state. “I am sure that this Khadi Plaza will benefit the farmers and artisans to showcase their products and serve as a link between the local artisans and the market,” he said.
Earlier, Chairman of Meghalaya Khadi and Village Industries Board (MKVIB), Gavin Mylliem, said that once completed the Khadi market complex would help to generate revenue for the board, while adding that the project was the outcome of the concerted efforts of NEC, Department of Commerce and Industries, MIDCL and MKVIB.
Also present during the occasion was the Economic Advisor, Banking and Industries, NEC, and Chief Executive Officer, MKVIB.
