Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Leads Task Force Meeting to Strengthen Handloom and Handicrafts in Northeast

In a major move to promote the vibrant handloom and handicraft traditions of Northeast India, Union Minister of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya Scindia chaired a high-level task force meeting with representatives from Assam, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Manipur. The meeting aimed at strengthening the textile and craft sectors of the region through sustainable and inclusive development strategies.

The gathering included prominent leaders such as Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh, Assam’s Handloom and Textiles Minister Urkhao Gwra Brahma, and senior officials from the state of Manipur. This diverse and influential participation reflected a collaborative effort among states and the Centre to drive the growth of traditional industries in the Northeast.

At the meeting, Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia reiterated the central government’s strong commitment to supporting artisans across the Northeastern states. He outlined key goals such as enhancing access to markets for locally made products, building the capacities of artisans through training and support programs, and promoting employment generation to uplift the economic conditions of those involved in the handloom and handicraft sectors.

Scindia underscored that the initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Fashion for Environment and Empowerment,” which emphasizes eco-friendly fashion development and the empowerment of local communities. By integrating traditional skills with modern techniques and sustainability principles, the government hopes to turn the Northeast into a textile and craft powerhouse.

A major focus of the meeting was the creation of a collaborative roadmap that brings together all stakeholders – artisans, government agencies, and industry leaders – to work towards shared goals. Discussions revolved around improving rural infrastructure for artisans, such as establishing production hubs, storage facilities, and transport networks. Additionally, the roadmap aims to make better use of the region’s rich cultural heritage by promoting unique local art forms in national and international markets.

The task force also discussed strategic marketing and branding of Northeastern handicrafts and handloom products. By positioning them as premium, sustainable, and culturally rooted offerings, the government seeks to increase demand and visibility for these products both within India and globally.

Another important aspect covered in the discussions was the need to provide artisans with better access to raw materials, affordable credit, design innovation support, and digital platforms for sales and promotion. The government plans to launch targeted skill development initiatives to empower young artisans and women, ensuring continuity and innovation in traditional crafts.

Overall, the meeting marked a key step toward revitalizing the Northeast’s handloom and handicraft sectors through coordinated planning, grassroots support, and sustainable growth models. The presence of multiple state leaders and union ministers highlighted the collective will to preserve the cultural identity of the region while also transforming it into an engine of economic growth.