On Thursday, the 1st of December 2022, an awareness program was conducted at the Women’s Community Hall in Thingba Khunou, Purul Block, Senapati District. This event was organized by Manipur Apex Handloom Weavers and Handicrafts Artisans’ C.S. Ltd. (AWAS) to shed light on the Cluster Development Programme (CDP) under the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP), led by the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. The focus of the program was the implementation of the Purul CDP.

1. Shri. N. Nimbus Singh, Chairman Khadi & Village Development Board, Govt. of Manipur (Chief Guest): Shri. Nimbus Singh, in his role as Chief Guest, emphasized the importance of handloom development in rural areas and the role of the Khadi & Village Development Board in supporting such initiatives.

2. Smt. A. Ronika Devi, President, Manipur Apex Handloom Weavers and Handicrafts Artisans C.S. Ltd, AWAS (President): Smt. Ronika Devi, as the President of AWAS, provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by local artisans and how AWAS is contributing to their welfare.

3. Shri. Th. Baite, Director MSME-DI, Manipur, Ministry of MSME, Govt. of India: Shri. Baite shared information on the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises’ support for the handloom sector, highlighting the significance of MSMEs in local development.

4. Shri Hara Kanta Baro, Deputy Director & HoO Weaver’s Service Centre (WSC), Imphal: Shri. Baro discussed the technical support and training opportunities available through the Weaver’s Service Centre, emphasizing the importance of skill development.

5. Shri Ks John Tk, Project Manager, District Handloom and Textiles, Senapati, Govt. of Manipur: Shri. John provided insights into the specific initiatives planned for Senapati District under the Purul Handloom Cluster, detailing the ground-level implementation.

6. Shri Y. Shantikumar Singh, Officer-in-charge (Marketing), National Handloom Development Corporation Ltd. (NHDC), Imphal: Shri. Shantikumar Singh discussed marketing strategies and opportunities available through NHDC to promote handloom products.

                 The awareness program featured presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions. Topics covered included financial assistance, skill development, market linkages, and infrastructure support under the NHDP’s CDP. Participants engaged in meaningful discussions, raising questions and concerns that were addressed by the panel.

                The event successfully brought together key stakeholders, providing a platform for collaborative discussions and shared understanding. The active participation of government officials, local leaders, and artisans showcased the collective commitment towards the development of the Purul Handloom Cluster. The Ministry of Textiles, through NHDP and CDP, continues its efforts to empower local artisans and promote sustainable handloom practices.

                The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose, as participants left with a clearer understanding of the support available and a commitment to work together for the successful implementation of the Purul CDP. The success of such programs is crucial for the overall growth of the handloom sector and the empowerment of local communities.