Mizoram CM Seeks Handloom Push At Task Force Meet

Mizoram Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma on July 22nd participated in a virtual meeting of the High-Level Task Force on Handloom & Handicraft, chaired by Nagaland Chief Minister Pu Neiphiu Rio. The task force, set up under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), aimed to strengthen and revitalize the handloom and handicraft sector, particularly in the Northeastern states.

Joining the Chief Minister at the meeting were Chief Secretary Pu Khilli Ram Meena, Commissioner & Secretary to the CM Pu Vanlaldina Fanai, Commissioner & Secretary for Commerce & Industries Dr. Lalzirmawia Chhangte, and officials from the Planning Department.

In his address, Pu Lalduhoma emphasized the Northeast’s pivotal role in the sector, noting that 60% of the national workforce in handloom and handicrafts is based in the region. He highlighted the sector’s cultural and economic significance and its potential as a major driver of growth and livelihood, especially for rural communities.

The Chief Minister called for the development of a clear and actionable roadmap to harness this potential. His key proposals included the establishment of Common Facility Centres, structured training programs for artisans, enhanced interstate collaboration, standardized branding and quality assurance, and a strong focus on innovation in skill development and design. He expressed optimism that with coordinated investment and planning, the Northeast could emerge as a globally recognized textile and handicraft hub.

The meeting also saw participation from Union Minister of DoNER Pu Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister of Textiles Pu Giriraj Singh, and ministers from other handloom-rich states. The task force includes representatives from all eight Northeastern states and is expected to submit its report within three months.

The initiative will adopt a cluster-based approach, leveraging each state’s unique strengths to boost artisan livelihoods, promote traditional crafts, and enhance national and international market access.