New Delhi, Oct 5: In a major push to unlock the Northeast’s traditional fibre economy, the National Conclave on Natural Fibres and Traditional Textiles is set to bridge the gap between grassroots artisans and national markets.
The event, organised by the Ministry of Textiles in collaboration with ICAR, the Government of Meghalaya, Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, and the College of Community Science, Tura, seeks to integrate traditional craft with innovation, policy, and commerce. The event is being held from Oct 6-8 in New Delhi.
In an exclusive interaction with Hub News, Dr. Anupam Mishra, Vice Chancellor of CAU Imphal, said the conclave aims to place the Northeast’s creativity and craftsmanship on the national stage while addressing longstanding market linkage challenges.
“We are connecting researchers, academicians, and policymakers directly with artisans to showcase the creativity of the Northeast and link it with both national and international markets,” Dr. Mishra explained.
He noted that while textiles are rarely seen as a direct product of agriculture, fibres such as Eri, Ramie, Banana, and Pineapple are deeply rooted in the region’s farming systems. Recognising this connection, Dr. Mishra underscored the importance of incorporating fibre production and processing into broader agricultural and economic strategies.
He also emphasised the conclave’s focus on women’s empowerment, highlighting how greater participation of women in weaving and textile enterprises could lead to more inclusive development across the region. Dr. Mishra further hinted at the possibility of future editions of the conclave being hosted in the Northeast itself, ensuring continuity and stronger participation from stakeholders nationwide.
Adding depth to the discussion, Dr. Jyoti Vastrad, Dean of the College of Community Science, CAU Tura, shared that the conclave was conceptualised following the success of a similar conference held earlier in Umiam, Meghalaya. The goal, she said, was to expand its reach and provide artisans with a platform in the national capital.
“With the support of our Honourable Minister for Agriculture, the Vice Chancellor, and ICAR, we brought nearly 100 artisans to Delhi, with 28–30 giving live demonstrations using indigenous equipment like the backstrap loom and spinning machines,” Dr. Vastrad said.
She revealed that several underutilised fibre-rich crops—such as wild banana varieties, pineapple, and the indigenous Camelot cotton—are now being explored in Meghalaya for their textile potential. Her college is developing processes to convert these fibres into yarns for sustainable fabric production, working in collaboration with local cooperatives and government agencies.
Dr. Vastrad also highlighted the broader opportunities ahead—developing processing units, GI tagging, and traceability systems that can empower rural communities. With researchers and artisans working hand-in-hand, she said, the Northeast has the potential to become a hub for sustainable, fibre-based innovations.
Renowned actor and writer Ashutosh Rana unveiled the conclave’s visual identity, symbolically connecting the theme of natural fibres with India’s living traditions. Officials say his participation lent star power and visibility to a movement deeply rooted in sustainability and cultural pride.
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