SHILLONG, AUG 14: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday said the government’s support to weavers goes beyond livelihood, calling it an investment in Meghalaya’s identity and heritage.
Addressing the culmination of the 12th National Handloom Week at the Integrated Textile Tourism Complex, Ri Sai, he said,“Our endeavour has gone beyond textiles and weaving. We are weaving our culture. We are protecting it. That is how we are investing in our people.”
Calling handloom designs like Dakmanda, Dharashat, Mukhli and Thoseru representations of the state’s diverse communities, the CM said the sector is “a celebration of Meghalaya and a message to the country and the world that we are proud of our heritage.”
He noted that over the last 6-7 years, culture, language and tradition have been kept at the core of the state’s progress.
Citing the recognition of Khasi and Garo as official languages after 54 years, he said such steps were aimed at protecting the dignity of the people.
The CM also inaugurated the Centre of Excellence at Ri Sai, which will train future generations in Eri weaving. The complex integrates craft, cuisine, culture, trade and tourism, with facilities including an Ahimsa Silk training and design centre, restaurant, cottages and retail plaza.
Highlighting growth in the sector, he said more than 50,000 households depend on textiles, with over 70% of the workforce being women. In Ri Bhoi alone, nearly 90% of 4,000 registered weavers and 3,200 sericulture farmers are women.
On the occasion, the CM distributed awards to textile entrepreneurs, weavers and farmers for their contribution to Eri silk and products.
He also flagged the state’s milestones: Umden-Diwon declared as Meghalaya’s first Eri Silk Village in 2021, GI tags for Ryndia and Khasi handlooms in 2024-25, and the formation of the Meghalaya Ryndia Producers Organisation.
Under the Income Generation Programme, 2,448 weavers received looms, accessories and yarn in 2025-26, up by 307 from last year.
A ₹571.15 lakh Cluster Development project is also underway targeting 981 beneficiaries.
The CM called on people to continue celebrating and promoting the state’s handloom traditions.
Also present were Minister Metbah Lyndoh, MLA Mayralborn Syiem, MDC Rona Khymdeit, Chief Secretary Dr Shakil Ahammad and other stakeholders.
