In a virtual meeting of the national handloom task force, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma spotlighted the Northeast’s central role in India’s handloom industry, noting that the region accounts for nearly 60% of the country’s total handloom workforce. The meeting, which saw participation from key policymakers and Union ministers, aimed to chart a path forward for the growth of India’s handloom sector.
During the discussion, Lalduhoma called for stronger central-state coordination to unlock the untapped potential of traditional weaving communities scattered across the Northeast. He stressed that the region’s cultural richness and skilled craftsmanship offer a solid foundation for scaling up sustainable textile production.
A strategic roadmap was approved in the session, focusing on three key pillars—skill development for artisans, standardization of handloom products, and nationwide branding initiatives. The government plans to adopt a cluster-based development model, which would allow local weaving hubs to receive targeted support for design innovation, quality control, and market access.
Officials said that the initiative is designed not only to preserve indigenous weaving traditions but also to make handloom products more competitive in both domestic and international markets. The roadmap also includes provisions for digital integration and e-commerce partnerships to boost the income of rural artisans.
The move comes at a time when the handloom sector, especially in the Northeast, is seeking stronger support post-pandemic. Stakeholders believe that this renewed attention could significantly enhance livelihoods and promote cultural exports from the region.
