Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today virtually inaugurated the Chief Minister’s Yarn Bank Scheme on the occasion of National Handloom Day, an initiative aimed at strengthening the state’s handloom sector and supporting the livelihoods of weavers.
The virtual inauguration held in Kohima was attended by Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang, Advisor for Industries and Commerce Hekani Jakhalu and other officials. The Yarn Bank has been established at the District Industries Centre at the State Industrial Area, Toluvi, Dimapur.
The scheme seeks to address the long-standing challenge faced by weavers in accessing quality natural yarn at affordable prices. Under the initiative, cotton, eri silk, muga silk, bamboo fibre and other natural fibre blends will be made available at mill-gate prices, with the government providing a 15 percent subsidy.
The scheme is expected to benefit around 5,000 to 10,000 weavers annually, enabling them to procure yarn directly from the Yarn Bank through a transparent and reliable distribution system.
Speaking at the programme, Chief Minister Rio said the initiative marks an important step in the state government’s commitment to strengthening the handloom sector and supporting artisans’ livelihoods. He described handloom as more than just fabric, saying it is an important expression of Nagaland’s identity, culture and heritage.
He also paid tribute to weavers across the state, particularly women, for preserving traditional crafts and contributing to the livelihoods of thousands of families. Mr Rio called upon eligible weavers, government departments, cooperative societies, self-help groups, village institutions and community leaders to work together to ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach every deserving artisan.
On National Handloom Day, the Chief Minister also called for a renewed collective commitment to protecting, promoting and celebrating Nagaland’s handloom heritage, so that traditions passed down through generations continue to inspire future generations with pride and purpose.
He expressed hope that the Chief Minister’s Yarn Bank will serve the weavers well and help Nagaland’s rich handloom heritage shine brighter in the years ahead.
