Nongpoh, August 14: The Textiles Department of the Meghalaya Government on Friday observed the 12th National Handloom Day 2026 at the Integrated Textiles Tourism Complex in Nongpoh, honouring the hard work of weavers who have preserved and safeguarded the State’s indigenous culture and traditions since time immemorial.
Every finely handwoven textile carries its own story through the arrangement of colours, patterns and designs, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Meghalaya to people across the country and the world. The celebration also highlighted handloom weaving as a means of employment and livelihood for numerous families.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma attended the programme as the chief guest in the presence of Textiles Minister Metbah Lyngdoh, Nongpoh MLA Mayral Born Syiem, MDC Rona Khymdeit, Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed, Principal Secretary Federick Kharkongor, Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Dr. Abhishek Saini, Superintendent of Police Giri Prasad, District Handloom Officer D.P. Tariang, along with senior State and district officials.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister inaugurated an exhibition showcasing products of weavers from different parts of the State, as well as a Centre of Excellence for weaving and related activities.
Young people also presented a fashion display featuring Ryndia textiles, demonstrating how traditional fabrics can be adapted to attract wider markets and integrated into various industries across the world. Ryndia is among the traditional textiles for which Meghalaya is widely known, both within the State and beyond.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said that Ryndia and other traditional handwoven textiles produced in Meghalaya are not merely fabrics, but represent the State’s unique identity and heritage.
He said these traditional products are a source of pride for Meghalaya and help people around the world recognise the State and its distinctive cultural identity. He stressed that the younger generation should not forget its roots, particularly at a time when advances in science and technology are rapidly changing society.
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The Chief Minister also highlighted the Government’s initiatives to preserve and promote indigenous languages and culture, including the recognition of Khasi and Garo as official languages of the State.
He further emphasised that, alongside culture and heritage, economic livelihood remains equally important. He said the Government was not seeking to transform everything overnight, but rather to improve and strengthen what already exists.
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Citing Lakadong turmeric as an example, he said developing something from scratch can take many years and therefore existing strengths should be improved through proper training, capacity-building and support. He stressed the need to provide quality training, promote entrepreneurs and, most importantly, create proper markets for their products.
The same approach, he said, was being extended to the State’s handloom weavers to help them improve their skills, expand their markets and turn traditional weaving into a sustainable source of livelihood.
