Imphal: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has inaugurated the Manipur International Textile Expo (MANITEX) 2025, a three-day event showcasing the state’s rich handloom and textile traditions. The expo, themed “Weaving a Sustainable Future: Manipur’s Handloom Heritage to Global Fashion,” highlights the state’s diverse handloom, handicraft, and textile products, emphasizing eco-friendly materials, natural dyes, and sustainable weaving practices.
During the inaugural function, 3,000 frame looms and accessories were distributed to local weavers under the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP), and financial assistance was extended to 60 ex-trainee artisans. Governor Bhalla also released the Data Book of National and State Awardees of Manipur and unveiled the Handlooms & Textiles Calendar 2026, emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting Manipur’s cultural heritage.
In his keynote address, Governor Bhalla stated that MANITEX 2025 is a celebration of Manipur’s cultural identity, artistry, and craftsmanship, bridging tradition with innovation and connecting local artisans, especially women, to national and international markets. He highlighted the economic significance of the handloom sector, driven largely by women weavers, and emphasized initiatives empowering artisans with innovation and market access, strengthening the ‘Made in Manipur’ brand.
