Manipur's handloom heritage takes centre stage at MANITEX 2025

IMPHAL — The five-day Manipur International Textile Expo (MANITEX) 2025 kicked off at Urban Haat, Nilakuthi, Imphal, on Saturday, on the theme ‘Weaving a sustainable future: Manipur's handloom heritage to global fashion.’

The primary objective of MANITEX 2025 is to showcase Manipur’s diverse handloom, handicraft, and textile products on the global stage, with a strong focus on eco-friendly textiles, natural dyes, and sustainable weaving practices deeply rooted in Manipuri traditions, according to the organisers.

During the day’s inaugural function, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla distributed 3,000 frame looms and accessories to weavers under the National Handloom Development Programme.

In addition, financial assistance was provided to 60 ex-trainee artisans for the purchase of tool kits. The governor also released the data book of National and State Awardees of Manipur and unveiled the Handlooms & Textiles Calendar 2026.

In his address, Bhalla said that MANITEX 2025 is not merely an exhibition of fabrics and designs — it is a proud celebration of Manipur’s identity, creativity, and craftsmanship.

“Each weave tells a story of our people, our culture, and our enduring connection to the land. From the hills to the valleys, every community contributes its own unique themes, colours, and techniques, reflecting the beautiful diversity that defines Manipur’s textile heritage.

“The Expo beautifully bridges tradition and innovation, connecting our artisans — many of them women —with national and global markets,” he said.

“It transforms skill into opportunity and heritage into livelihood, reaffirming that Manipur’s greatest strength lies in the hands of its weavers.

MANITEX stands as a shining example of how tradition can embrace modernity without losing its soul.”

Additionally, Bhalla said that the handloom and textile sector is the heartbeat of Manipur’s economy, with women weavers forming its very foundation.

“Through their artistry and resilience, they preserve our heritage while shaping a sustainable future,” he added.

“Initiatives such as One District One Product (ODOP), PM Mitra Parks, and Digital India e-commerce integration are empowering our artisans with technology, innovation, and market access.

“Together, these efforts are strengthening the ‘Made in Manipur’ brand — a mark of authenticity, sustainability, and excellence. When we uplift our weavers, we uplift communities, ensuring that Manipur’s legacy continues to inspire the world,” he said.

Displaying and exhibiting different items, more than 100 stalls including outstation teams also taking part in the textile expo.

Chief Secretary PK Goel, Additional Chief Secretary (Textiles, Commerce & Industry and Transport) Anurag Bajpai, Padma Shri awardees, guests, officials, weavers, and members of the public attended the inaugural function.