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DIMAPUR — In an effort to introduce local handicrafts to the global market, Neikule Doulo, executive director of the Entrepreneurs Associates (tEA) and director of EANFER, presented textiles and craftsmanship at Texworld Apparel Sourcing in Paris, which took place at Porte de Versailles, France, from July 1 to the 3rd.
Facilitated by the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER), and the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC), this initiative is expected to create new opportunities for local weavers and artisans, according to a press release.
As part of the exhibition, a digitalised handloom product, ‘Rira’, a traditional Chakhesang shawl for men, was showcased. The shawl, integrated with an IoT (Internet of Things) device, was woven by Zevelou Lasuh from Thetsumi village in Phek.
It was mentioned that she has been a dedicated weaver since the age of 14, learning the craft through apprenticeship. Alongside her fellow villagers, she is committed to preserving this traditional practice for future generations and honouring the legacy of their forefathers.
She expressed her joy and honour at being part of the project, despite being unable to attend in person.
It may be mentioned that in July 2023, tEA partnered with NEHHDC for a project titled ‘Market development through digitalisation, authentication, and implementation of traceability in the handloom sector weavers of north-eastern states’.
Subsequently, tEA successfully mobilised and verified 1,325 weavers in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland. In May 2024, the project began installing IoT devices for testing with six weavers in two districts, expanding its technological reach.
The devices provide a tag with a QR code, allowing buyers to view details and pictures of the weaver, the type of fabric or yarn used, and a short video of the weaver crafting the product by hand. This authentication process supports higher pricing, thereby increasing the weavers' income.