From Our Correspondent
NONGPOH, Dec 6: Union Minister for Textiles Giriraj Singh inaugurated the Integrated Textile Tourism Complex (ITTC) along with EKTA, a three-day exposition of handloom products and diverse crafts at Mawdiangum in Ri-Bhoi district on Saturday.
EKTA expands to Exhibition cum Knowledge Sharing for Textile Advantage.
The ITTC has been constructed with financial support from the office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) under the Union Ministry of Textiles and with cooperation from the Meghalaya government.
Union Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margherita, Meghalaya Textile Minister Metbah Lyngdoh, Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem, Umsning MLA Celestine Lyngdoh, Nongpoh MDC Rona Khymdeit, senior officials of the Textiles Department, and other dignitaries from both state and central governments were present at the inaugural programme.
The first of its kind in Meghalaya, the ITTC is aimed at promoting and expanding the market for Eri (Ahimsa) silk and various indigenous products crafted by local weavers and artisans and strengthening the 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 EKTA, Singh visited the Muga Seed Unit as part of efforts to preserve, promote, and expand the globally renowned species of silkworm found in Meghalaya.
He announced that the first handloom service centre 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 centre would generate employment for people across the state 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.
Singh called on the Meghalaya government to develop a model sericulture framework to enhance the production and market value of local weaves and crafts.
He 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.
