Arunachal Pradesh Pushes Tribal Handlooms Into Global Markets

Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced a push to link tribal handlooms with modern markets. He spoke at the 12th National Handloom Day at the DK Convention Centre in Guwahati. The state aims to boost rural livelihoods. Khandu declared, "Every woven fabric of Arunachal tells the story of our people, our traditions and our identity."

More than 32,000 weavers work in the state. Most are women. The government is backing them with new Common Facility Centres and updated weaving gear. Officials want to blend age-old craft with digital marketing and e-commerce. They are teaching artisans about natural dyeing and new design techniques.

Khandu pushed for Geographical Indication tags. These tags protect indigenous designs from cheap knock-offs. The state is also betting on sericulture. It remains one of the few places capable of producing Eri, Muga, Mulberry, and Oak Tasar silk. The government now coordinates the entire chain from silkworm rearing to finished weaving.

The Chief Minister launched a new Department of Textiles and Handicrafts website. He also introduced the Artisan Data Bank and a brand named Atii: Arunachal Honey. During the three-day event, he gave out SAMARTH certificates and Yarn Pass Books to top artisans. State ministers and tribal groups attended the celebration to discuss long-term growth.