Orenthung Lotha, Gwaruno Khing and others with the participants of State Handloom Expo in Kohima on September 28. Morung Photo
Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 28
Nagaland’s commissioner & secretary for Cooperation and Information & Public Relations, Orenthung Lotha today inaugurated a two-week long State Handloom Expo 2025 (Hathkargha Mela) under the theme ‘My Handloom My Pride’ at Gorkha Public Panchayat Hall, Chandmari, Kohima.
Addressing the inaugural function, Orenthung commended the contribution of the artisans in boosting the economy. He maintained that North East is known for its rich textiles, heritage where every tribe weaves its own identity and story into the loom. He said that the Expo is an effort to provide a platform to weavers, artisans and Self Help Groups (SHGs) to showcase their authentic handloom products, traditional attires and dresses and connect them to a wider market.
He also told the artisans to improve traditional designs to prosper in the commercial activities. Further, he reminded them to be dedicated and sincere in their approach and contribute towards Viksit Bharat - a vision for a Developed India by 2047.
WEAFED managing director Gwaruno Khing said that the Expo comprises 40 stalls from local artisans of Nagaland state while 20 stalls featured artisans from Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Meghalaya.
He said that the Government will be extending training programme for artisans and also organize more Expo in the coming day.
The expo, to continue till October 12, will keep open for visitors from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily. Products like shawl, mekhala, traditional bag, toy, doll, necklace, etc are being sold at the reasonable rate.
Asosala, Assistant Registrar of Cooperative Societies and Rokovisa Chase, Joint Registrar Cooperative Societies were also present at the inaugural programme.
The primary objectives of a State Handloom Expo is to provide a platform for weavers and artisans to showcase and sell their products, promote the handloom and handicraft sector, and foster business opportunities within the industry.
The Expo is organised by Nagaland Apex Weavers & Artisans Cooperative Federation Ltd Dimapur (WEAFED) (Undertaking by Government of Nagaland) and sponsored by office of the Development Commissioner for Handlooms, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, New Delhi.
