Imphal, June 26 (Northeast Press):
In a major initiative aimed at strengthening the handloom and textile sector in Manipur, the Directorate of Handloom and Textiles under the Department of Textiles, Commerce & Industry has launched the SAMARTH Scheme, a flagship programme of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, focused on skill development and capacity building for weavers and artisans.
The scheme was officially launched at a ceremony held at Lamboikhongangkhong, Imphal, by Anurag Bajpai, Additional Chief Secretary (Textiles, Commerce & Industry). The launch event was graced by key officials including E. Jiten Singh, Director (Handloom & Textiles), Beauty Mili, Assistant Director (Design), Ministry of Textiles, as well as designers, project managers, and Cluster Development Executives (CDEs).
Speaking at the launch, Anurag Bajpai highlighted the scheme’s objective of enhancing income-generating opportunities for artisans and weavers by equipping them with modern design skills, training in natural dye techniques, better technology, and improved access to domestic and international markets. He also emphasized the need for the formation of producer groups to leverage the UNNATI Scheme, which supports enterprise development.
Bajpai also acknowledged the logistical challenges faced by artisans, particularly in terms of transportation costs, and proposed that subsidies under the RAMP Scheme could help make products more competitive. He revealed that the state government is working on a time-bound plan to set up a Textile Park in Manipur to better organize and scale up the textile industry.
Director Jiten Singh provided insights into the SAMARTH Scheme’s training modules, detailing that initial training will focus on four trades: Apparel, Handloom Weaving, Hand Dyeing, and Kouna Craft. These will be conducted at the Design Extension Centre in Porompat and the Apparel & Garment Making Centre in Lamboikhongangkhong. The first training batch, consisting of 25 participants, began training in sewing machine operations. The programme includes 300 hours of intensive training over 50 working days.
As part of the launch, an exhibition showcasing new textile products was held, featuring collaborative creations by Cluster Development Executives and Textile Designers. These products are part of 35 ongoing Cluster Development Programmes (CDPs) implemented across all districts of Manipur, including one Mega Handloom Cluster in Imphal East.
Since April 2025, a team of 39 trained CDEs and designers have been actively developing and introducing at least one innovative design every month—many of which were displayed at the exhibition, reflecting the creativity and evolving craftsmanship of Manipur’s artisan community.
The SAMARTH Scheme is expected to significantly contribute to the state’s textile economy, by not only preserving traditional skills but also integrating modern design and market approaches to ensure sustainable livelihoods for artisans.
