Guwahati, Dec 5: In a landmark step toward positioning Meghalaya’s traditional textiles on the national and global stage, the state will inaugurate the Integrated Textile Tourism Centre (ITTC) at the Handloom & Sericulture Complex in Nongpoh on December 6. Conceived as a one-stop destination blending heritage, skill development, and cultural tourism, the ITTC is funded by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, with support from the Meghalaya government.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh, and Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margherita will jointly inaugurate the centre, with senior minister Metbah Lyngdoh also in attendance.

Envisioned as a flagship cultural and economic hub, the ITTC aims to spotlight Meghalaya’s rich textile traditions—especially Eri (Ahimsa) silk—while strengthening the entire farm-to-fabric value chain. The centre will bring artisans, farmers, entrepreneurs, and visitors together in an eco-friendly, interactive space that highlights ethical silk production and the state’s distinctive weaving heritage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent Mann Ki Baat broadcast, described Eri silk as “not just a fabric, but a heritage of Meghalaya,” nurtured across generations, particularly by the Khasi community. He emphasised its non-violent extraction process, earning it the name Ahimsa Silk, and noted the rising global demand for sustainable products. “Eri Silk of Meghalaya is a perfect product for the global market,” he said, adding that its ability to keep the wearer warm in winter and cool in summer enhances its appeal across climates.

A key attraction at the ITTC will be the EKTA Meghalaya Pavilion, launched in collaboration with the Department of Textiles and the Central Silk Board. EKTA—Exhibition cum Knowledge Sharing for Textile Advantage—is a national initiative aimed at promoting India’s textile legacy through curated exhibits, workshops, and state partnerships. The pavilion will provide a dynamic platform for designers, weavers, and textile collectives to showcase innovations alongside traditional craftsmanship.

The inauguration will also feature a Ryndia showcase by leading designers, presented in two thematic rounds, celebrating Meghalaya’s signature textile and its contemporary expressions. The event will include the launch of a specially curated Meghalaya Textile Theme Song, performed by the Khmih Creative Society, and the release of Loom to Legacy, a documentary tracing Ryndia’s journey from its origins to its GI-tag milestone.

With the ITTC, Meghalaya seeks to build a world-class cultural tourism experience while empowering local communities and reinforcing the state’s position as a national leader in sustainable and ethical textile production.

Also Read: Dhar inaugurates Christmas lighting festival in Mootyrchiah village

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