Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh, June 9: Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles Pabitra Margherita on Monday underlined Arunachal Pradesh’s growing role in India’s cultural and textile landscape during a visit to the picturesque Ziro Valley.

Interacting with local weavers, artisans and community leaders, Margherita praised Arunachal’s rich indigenous traditions and described the state as an important pillar of India’s cultural heritage.

The minister used the visit to announce and review a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening local livelihoods through the handloom and handicrafts sector. Among the key highlights was the foundation stone laying ceremony for the proposed Ziro Handloom Marketing Complex, envisioned as a platform to help local artisans access larger markets and showcase their products beyond the region.

Margherita also distributed specialised toolkits to artisans under the Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme, a move aimed at improving productivity while preserving traditional craft practices.

Speaking during the visit, the minister lauded the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu and acknowledged the contribution of Arunachal Pradesh’s Members of Parliament in advancing development and textile-related initiatives in the state.

“The preservation of indigenous traditions alongside modern development is one of Arunachal Pradesh’s greatest strengths,” Margherita said while interacting with artisans and local stakeholders.

His visit included meetings with district officials, community representatives and local leaders in Lower Subansiri district, where discussions focused on livelihood opportunities, textile development and grassroots economic growth.

For the artisans of Ziro Valley, the proposed marketing complex could become a significant step towards connecting traditional craftsmanship with larger national and international markets, while helping ensure that centuries-old weaving traditions continue to thrive in a changing economy.