Itanagar, August 8: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the state’s rich weaving tradition, noting that over 32,000 handloom weavers are involved in this sector. It serves as a significant livelihood source for rural families.
Speaking at the inauguration of the three-day 12th National Handloom Day celebrations at the DK Convention Center, the Chief Minister reiterated the state government’s commitment to transforming Arunachal Pradesh’s vibrant handloom tradition into a robust economic sector.
He announced that the government is working to connect traditional weaving with modern design, entrepreneurship, and global market access while preserving the state’s unique tribal heritage.
Khandu described handloom not just as a means of livelihood but as a cultural identity and living heritage of Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous tribes. He stated that every woven fabric from Arunachal tells the story of its people, traditions, and identity. The handloom sector has the potential to become a cornerstone for rural livelihoods, women’s empowerment, and sustainable economic development.
He mentioned that the state government is continuously strengthening the handloom ecosystem by promoting better infrastructure, skill development, design innovation, marketing support, and entrepreneurship.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the government has established Common Facility Centers (CFCs), upgraded weaving infrastructure, and provided modern equipment to enhance productivity while maintaining the authenticity of traditional designs.
He further explained that weavers are being trained in contemporary design techniques, natural dyeing, quality improvement, and product diversification to compete in national and international markets.
Khandu noted that various schemes from both state and central governments are providing economic assistance, raw materials, modern looms, and marketing support to weavers and artisan groups across Arunachal Pradesh.
He urged young entrepreneurs to leverage the significant opportunities in the handloom and handicraft sectors by integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern branding, digital marketing, and e-commerce platforms.
Emphasizing the role of women in preserving Arunachal’s textile traditions, the Chief Minister stated that handloom has always been a means of women’s empowerment, with generations of women maintaining the state’s unique cultural identity through their weaving skills.
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