Nongpoh, Dec 6: Union Minister for Textiles Giriraj Singh on Saturday arrived in Nongpoh to inaugurate the Integrated Textile Tourism Complex (ITTC) along with the Multi-Day EKTA – Exhibition cum Knowledge Sharing for Textile Advantage Programme, a three-day showcase of handloom products and diverse crafts at Mawdiangum in Ri Bhoi District.
The newly inaugurated facility, constructed with financial support from the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) under the Union Ministry of Textiles with cooperation from the Meghalaya Government, witnessed the presence of Union Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margherita, Meghalaya Textile Minister Metbah Lyngdoh, Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem, Umsning MLA Dr. Celestine Lyngdoh, Nongpoh MDC Rona Khymdeit, senior officials of the Textiles Department and other dignitaries from both state and central governments.
The ITTC, the first-of-its-kind in Meghalaya, is aimed at promoting and expanding the market for Eri (Ahimsa) silk and various indigenous products crafted by local weavers and artisans of the state and strengthen value chain from farm to market. The new complex is also envisioned as a step towards boosting tourism through textile-based cultural experiences.
After inaugurating the complex and the EKTA exhibition, the Union Minister visited the Muga Seed Unit as part of efforts to preserve, promote and expand the globally renowned species of silkworm found in Meghalaya.
In his address, Giriraj Singh announced that the first Handloom Service Center outside Guwahati would be set up in Meghalaya, provided suitable land of at least 10,000 sq. ft. is made available. He added that the upcoming center would generate employment opportunities for people across states and expressed confidence that Ri Bhoi District, due to its proximity to Guwahati, has the potential to emerge as a major textile trading hub in the Northeast.
Highlighting India’s unique advantage in producing all four varieties of natural silk—Eri, Muga, Mulberry and Tasar, he noted with pride that Meghalaya’s Mulberry silk has begun receiving recognition even in China. He urged the Northeastern region to focus on projecting its textiles and crafts to international markets and suggested that similar platforms be established in Europe. He called on the Meghalaya Government to develop a Model Sericulture framework to enhance the production and market value of local weaves and crafts.
The Union Minister reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to supporting the Northeast, stating that the region is witnessing a new era of empowerment, recognition and opportunity, unlike past decades when its youth faced neglect and discrimination.
