New Delhi, Oct 6: The three-day National Conclave on “Weaving India Together: Natural Fibres, Innovation and Livelihoods from the North East and Beyond” commenced in New Delhi, bringing national attention to the rich natural fibre heritage of the North East.
The conference set the tone for the celebration of India’s natural fibres, traditional craftsmanship, and innovation-driven livelihoods.
The conclave is being organized by the College of Community Science (CCS), Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Tura, Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Government of Meghalaya, Ministry of Textiles, and the Deendayal Research Institute (DRI), New Delhi.
The grand inaugural session was graced by Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minister of Minority Affairs, as the Chief Guest. The Guests of Honour included Dr. Mridula Thakur Pradhan, Chairperson, Vikas Foundation Trust; Dr. Rajbir Singh, DDG (Agricultural Extension), ICAR; Atul Jain, Vice Chairman, DRI, New Delhi; and Dr. Mangi Lal Jat, Secretary (DARE) & DG (ICAR). The session was presided over by Prof. Anupam Mishra, Vice Chancellor, CAU (Imphal).
In his keynote address, Kiren Rijiju lauded the organizers for bringing national attention to the rich natural fibre heritage of the North East like Eri, Muga, Banana, Ramie, and Nettle. He commended the integration of traditional knowledge with modern innovation and appreciated the leadership of Prof. Anupam Mishra and Dr. Jyoti V. Vastrad for conceptualizing and executing the conclave at the national capital.
Welcoming the dignitaries and participants, Prof. Mishra emphasized the conclave’s vision of uniting innovation, heritage, and livelihoods across India’s diverse fibre ecosystem. Dr. Jyoti V. Vastrad, Dean, CCS, Tura, Meghalaya, briefed the audience about the objectives and highlights of the event.
Dr. Mangi Lal Jat praised the artisans and weavers for setting up an impressive array of stalls and live demonstration counters, noting that the exhibits beautifully showcased India’s craft traditions while helping artisans gain greater visibility and market exposure.
During the ceremony, weavers and artisans were felicitated for their remarkable contributions to preserving and promoting India’s textile heritage. Special recognition was accorded to farmers from Sadolpara village and the state of Nagaland for their dedication to sustainable fibre cultivation and community-based weaving initiatives. Their exemplary work in combining tradition with innovation was acknowledged as central to the conclave’s mission.
The technical session, themed “Heritage Meets Modernity: Reviving Traditional Textiles through Design, Technology, and Market Integration,” featured insightful discussions on how design innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship can rejuvenate traditional textiles while ensuring cultural continuity, sustainability, and enhanced livelihood opportunities.
A major highlight of the day was the Artisan Showcase and Live Demonstration Pavilion, where over 75 artisans and weavers from across India displayed their skills in weaving, spinning, natural dyeing, and eco-friendly fibre processing. The dignitaries interacted with the participants and appreciated their craftsmanship, reaffirming the immense potential of India’s natural fibre sector in driving sustainable economic growth.
The evening concluded with a captivating cultural programme and sustainable fashion ramp, where eco-conscious designs crafted from Eri, Muga, and Banana fibres took centre stage. The “Green Couture Runway” celebrated India’s textile legacy through modern, sustainable fashion expressions.
Before the commencement of the Bihu dance performance, the gathering observed a one-minute silence in memory of Late Zubeen Garg, as a mark of respect for his contributions to art and culture. The cultural evening beautifully embodied the spirit of “Weaving India Together” through music, dance, and performances representing the vibrancy of the North East and beyond.
The first day of the conclave witnessed interlacing of tradition, innovation, and sustainability—reflecting India’s commitment to empowering artisans, strengthening fibre-based enterprises, and advancing the vision of Vocal for Local and Atma Nirbhar Bharat.
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