NONGPOH, Oct 27: Union Minister Giriraj Singh reviewed the Ri-Bhoi Aspirational District Programme and assessed the implementation of various central schemes under this initiative during his visit to Ri-Bhoi on October 25-26.
On his first day, Singh chaired a review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference hall in Nongpoh, attended by Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, the minister’s Additional Private Secretary Jai Krishna, other deputy and assistant commissioners, and various district department heads. The Deputy Commissioner presented updates on key indicators of progress under the Aspirational District Programme.
On October 26, Singh, also the Union Minister of Textiles, visited the Eri Silk village in Umden Diwon, where he engaged with local weavers, artisans, and farmers.
Accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal and officials from state and central governments, Singh observed the dyeing, weaving, and production processes at Kiniho and the Design Innovation Research Centre (DIRC) in Diwon.
The minister also held discussions with artisans at DUYA Hall in Diwon, where he distributed Artisan Identity Cards issued by the Ministry of Textiles.
In his remarks, Singh emphasised the government’s commitment, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, to boost income across sectors such as agriculture, livestock, weaving, and handicrafts.
He encouraged artisans to make the most of these opportunities, assuring support from both central and state governments. He advised residents to prepare a blueprint for assistance measures and to collaborate with government officials for financial support.
