Imphal, November 8, 2025: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Saturday inaugurated MANITEX 2025, the state's annual handloom and textile exposition, celebrating Manipur's rich weaving heritage, promoting indigenous craftsmanship, and reaffirming the government's commitment to empowering women artisans and strengthening the traditional handloom sector.
The event brought together weavers, designers, entrepreneurs, cooperative societies, self-help groups, and textile stakeholders from across the state, showcasing Manipur's vibrant handloom traditions alongside contemporary innovations in textile design. MANITEX 2025 aims to promote the "Made in Manipur" brand as a symbol of authenticity, quality, sustainability, and exceptional craftsmanship while creating new market opportunities for local artisans.
Speaking at the inaugural function, Governor Bhalla highlighted the historical and cultural significance of Manipur's handloom industry, describing it as one of the state's greatest strengths. He noted that weaving is deeply woven into the social and cultural fabric of Manipur, with generations of artisans preserving traditional techniques while adapting to changing market demands.
The Governor emphasised that supporting local artisans, particularly women weavers, is essential for preserving Manipur's unique cultural identity and promoting self-reliant communities. He said the handloom sector not only safeguards the state's rich heritage but also serves as an important source of livelihood for thousands of families across both rural and urban areas.
As part of the inaugural programme, the government distributed 3,000 looms to weavers to enhance production capacity and improve livelihoods. Officials said the initiative is expected to help artisans modernise their workspaces, increase productivity, and produce high-quality handloom products while preserving traditional weaving techniques.
In another significant step towards supporting skilled artisans, financial assistance was provided to 60 ex-trainee artisans to encourage them to establish or expand their own weaving enterprises. Officials said the assistance would help beneficiaries become self-reliant, generate employment opportunities, and strengthen the local handloom economy.
The Governor observed that investment in traditional industries contributes to sustainable economic development by creating livelihoods while preserving cultural heritage. He encouraged young entrepreneurs and designers to collaborate with experienced artisans to develop innovative products capable of competing in national and international markets without compromising the authenticity of Manipuri textiles.
MANITEX 2025 features an extensive exhibition of handwoven textiles, traditional garments, indigenous fabrics, contemporary fashion products, and handcrafted items that reflect the artistic excellence of Manipur's weaving community. The expo also provides a platform for weavers, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs to interact with buyers, industry experts, and policymakers, facilitating business opportunities and knowledge exchange.
Officials stated that the event forms part of the government's broader efforts to strengthen the handloom and handicrafts sector through skill development, financial support, market promotion, and infrastructure development. By promoting the "Made in Manipur" brand, the government seeks to enhance the visibility of the state's handloom products, expand market access, and improve the economic well-being of artisans.
The inauguration of MANITEX 2025 reaffirmed the state's commitment to preserving its centuries-old weaving traditions while embracing innovation and sustainable growth. Officials expressed confidence that the initiative would further establish Manipur as one of India's leading centres of handloom excellence and create new opportunities for artisans to showcase their craftsmanship on national and global platforms.
