Commerce minister for greater patronage of local products
The Imphal Free Press/KanglaOnline, India
IMPHAL, Apr 17: The commerce and industry minister, N Mangi Singh, has called for greater local patronage of indigenous handloom and handicraft products to help improve the state`s economy.
Speaking at the closing function of the 10 day long Eco-Crafts Bazar at Mapal Kangjeibung, the minister lamented that people in Manipur do not use local handloom and handicrafts very much. The state can become self-sufficient economically only when there is greater local patronage for such local products and their export potential is properly exploited, said the minister.
He noted that despite the unhealthy financial condition of the state, the commerce and industry department has been extending various facilities to the handloom and handicraft weavers and craftspersons, including facilitating their participation in trade fairs outside the state, provision of textile technology training, and a pension scheme for craftspersons.
He added that the project report for the proposed setting up of an `Urban Haat` has been submitted, but its implementation has been delayed due to non-availability of suitable land.
Organised under the sponsorship of the development commissioner, handicrafts, Union ministry of textiles, by the Creations Society for Handicrafts and Goodwill, Singjamei, the Eco-crafts Bazar was participated by altogether 150 stalls, showcasing the works of craftspersons from all over the state, and from as far away as Kohima and Shillong..
The director, art and culture department, Kh Sarojini, presided over today`s closing function.