TEZU, Aug 7: The Arunachal Pradesh Handloom and Handicrafts Policy–2025 was formally launched today at Amik Rinya Hall, Tezu, marking a major milestone in the state’s efforts to empower weavers and artisans while preserving its rich tribal heritage.
The policy was launched as part of the 11th National Handloom Day celebrations which was organized by the Department of Textile & Handicrafts, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, in collaboration with the Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
The new Policy provides a comprehensive framework to address longstanding challenges in the handloom and handicrafts sector and unlock its immense economic and cultural potential. Some of the key components of the policy include, Creation of a Weavers and Artisans Database, Establishment of Raw Material and Tool Banks, Improved Access to Credit, Promotion of Research and Development, E-commerce and Digital Initiatives, The One Tribe One Weave initiative, A Comprehensive Livelihood Promotion Scheme, Legal Protection of indigenous designs and knowledge.
The Department of Textile and Handicrafts will serve as the nodal department for the effective implementation of these initiatives.
In his keynote address, Textile & Handicrafts Minister, Nyato Dukam, emphasized the cultural and economic importance of handloom in Arunachal.
“There are 26 major tribes in Arunachal, and it is only because of our weavers that these identities are visibly preserved. Handloom is not just cultural—it also holds economic promise. This policy is a roadmap to guide and support our weavers as they move forward,” he said.
Tezu MLA and Advisor to the Minister, Dr Mohesh Chai, highlighted the historical relevance of the National Handloom Day, commemorating the 1905 Swadeshi Movement, and revived in 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“Our traditional attire is beautiful, but the real challenge is to keep it alive as a living culture. Change is natural, but our core traditions and designs must be preserved,” he said.
He also announced the establishment of new Craft Building Centres at Tezu and Sunpura, expressing hope that such infrastructure and events will further energize the handloom movement in the state.
Weavers and artisans from across Arunachal participated in the celebration and showcased their products at exhibition stalls, offering a vibrant display of tribal craftsmanship. As part of the celebration, yarns were distributed to weavers to support their work, and computer sets were distributed for five districts to aid in the implementation of e-office systems in the department.
To recognize excellence, State Awards for Best Craftspersons were conferred upon Shri Gemo Gini, Shri Shamtu Mossang & Smt Phelem Lukham, and State Awards for Best Handloom Weavers to Smt Kagho Yabii, Smt Nyiacha Kamhoa and Smt Jonlen Bo.
Commissioner Textile & Handicrafts, Mamung Tayeng, and other senior officials also spoke on the occasion, reinforcing the department’s vision of making handloom a viable, dignified livelihood while preserving Arunachal’s distinct tribal identities.
