The Manipur Chief Minister – N. Biren Singh noted that financial assistance through direct transfer will be distributed to around 15,450 handloom weavers and boatmen with a total outlay of Rs 23.48 Crores.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of MANITEX, Manipur International Textile Expo at the Urban Haat in Nilakuthi, the Manipur CM acknowledged the womenfolk’s contribution in the state’s economy. He highlighted the popularity garnered by the State’s Ima Keithels (Women Market) in the national and international platforms.

The Manipur CM also launched the Mega Handloom Cluster of Imphal East, laid the foundation-stone of the Craft Handloom Village of Moirang and distributed the financial assistance of weavers through DBT under the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP).

Considering that some stakeholders are attempting to monopolize the yarn business, the government has decided to establish a wholesaler of yarn at Ima Keithel, so that weavers can get them at cheaper prices.

According to the Minister of Textiles, Commerce & Industry – Nemcha Kipgen, MANITEX aims to showcase the state’s handlooms, handicrafts, dyeing and printing, embroidery, and costume to the world.

This year, the Expo has 274 stalls set up by local weavers, artisans, entrepreneurs, local private companies, national-level organizations. Besides, international stalls from Thailand, Bangladesh and Myanmar were also installed at the Expo.

Later, on the day, the Manipur CM also inspected the ongoing work for the construction of an Amusement Park at Thengu Chingjin in Imphal East.