REPORT ON CAPACITY BUILDING AND ORIENTATION PROGRAMME FOR KHOUPUM HANDLOOM CLUSTER

Date: January 17, 2023

Location: Panthoibi Arcade, Wangkhei, Imphal

Introduction:

In a pivotal move towards advancing the handloom industry in the Khoupum region, a 10-day Capacity Building and Orientation Programme for Cluster Development Executives and Textile Designers was inaugurated on Monday, the 16th of January, 2023. Hosted at Panthoibi Arcade, Wangkhei, Imphal, the event was organized under the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP), Ministry of Textiles.

Participants:

The program witnessed the enthusiastic participation of key individuals who played a significant role as resource persons. Notable attendees included Shri Mutua Bahadur, Director of Mutua Museum; Shri K. Lamlee Kamei, Director of Handlooms & Textiles; Shri. Dr. S Sureshkumar, Faculty, VMIMS Manipur University; Smt. Aurineeta Das, NIFT Shillong; Shri E. Jeeten Singh, Managing Director, MHHDC Ltd.; Shri. M. Ibohal Singh, Officer in Charge/ HoO, WSC, Imphal; Professor Rajmani Aheibam; and Shri Y. Shantikumar Singh, Officer-in-charge (marketing), National Handloom Development Corporation Ltd. (NHDC).

Program Highlights:

The 10-day program was designed to provide intensive training and orientation to Cluster Development Executives and Textile Designers associated with the Khoupum Handloom Cluster. The resource persons, each an expert in their respective domains, shared invaluable insights and knowledge aimed at enhancing the skills and capabilities of the participants.

Sessions and Topics Covered:

1. Preservation of Tradition and Innovation: Shri Mutua Bahadur emphasized the importance of preserving traditional craftsmanship while encouraging innovation to meet modern demands.

2. Role of Cluster Development Executives: Shri K. Lamlee Kamei highlighted the pivotal role of Cluster Development Executives in driving sustainable development within the handloom industry.

3. Technical Aspects of Handloom Production: Shri. Dr. S Sureshkumar and Professor Rajmani Aheibam delved into the technical nuances of handloom production, covering aspects of quality control and innovation.

4. Textile Design Trends: Smt. Aurineeta Das provided insights into the latest trends in textile design, fostering creativity and contemporary aesthetics.

5. Business Strategies and Marketing: Shri E. Jeeten Singh and Shri Y. Shantikumar Singh shed light on effective business strategies and marketing techniques, with a focus on promoting Khoupum handloom products on a broader scale.

Participant Representation:

Cluster Development Executives Pantigui and Textile Designers Laishram Santina Thangjam represented the Khoupum Handloom Cluster in the program. Their active participation reflected the commitment of the local community towards skill enhancement and the development of the handloom sector.

Closing Ceremony and Next Steps:

The program concluded with a closing ceremony, acknowledging the dedication and enthusiasm of the participants. The individuals were encouraged to apply the acquired knowledge in their respective roles, contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of the Khoupum Handloom Cluster.

The Capacity Building and Orientation Programme marked a significant milestone in the journey towards empowering Khoupum’s handloom industry. With newfound skills and knowledge, the Cluster Development Executives and Textile Designers are poised to drive positive change, fostering innovation, and ensuring the sustainable growth of the local handloom sector.