Gangtok, August 7 (IPR): A one-day awareness programme under the theme 'My Product, My Pride', on the occasion of the 12th National Handloom Day, was organised by Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom (DHH) under the Commerce and Industries Department, at the premises of DHH, today.
The programme was held with the objective of promoting awareness and appreciation of the handloom sector and its contribution to the preservation of traditional craftsmanship and livelihoods.
The event had the presence of Minister, Commerce and Industries Department and Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Mr T T Bhutia, as the Chief Guest.
In his address, Minister, Commerce and Industries Department, Mr T T Bhutia, highlighted the achievement of Ms Sheetal Tamang from Namchi District, who is being conferred with the National Handloom Award in New Delhi today. He stated that the recognition would be recorded as a significant achievement in the history of the State's handloom sector and would serve as an inspiration for other weavers.
He highlighted the efforts of the Department towards strengthening and developing the handloom sector in the State, with a focus on enhancing the skills of weavers and ensuring the production of quality handloom products. He stated that the State Government and the Department are working towards promoting women empowerment, fostering economic independence, and creating opportunities for women to contribute meaningfully towards the vision of Sunaulo Samriddha ani Samarth Sikkim.
The Minister also appreciated the initiative of the Chief Minister to encourage the wearing of traditional attire once a week, stating that such initiatives would help promote and preserve the State's rich cultural heritage. He expressed optimism that the handloom industry holds significant potential and has a bright future in the State.
Chairman, DHH, Mr N B Gurung, while addressing the gathering, welcomed the weavers on the occasion of the 12th National Handloom Day. He spoke about the development and progress of the State's weaving community and highlighted the support extended by the State Government towards its growth and welfare.
He stated that the stipend provided by the State Government is aimed at encouraging weavers to continue their craft and contribute towards preserving the State's rich culture and traditional weaving practices. He also expressed gratitude to the entire weaving community for their dedication and continued efforts towards strengthening and carrying forward the weaving tradition of Sikkim.
In her address, Secretary, Commerce and Industries Department, Ms Karma D Youtso, highlighted the significant role played by women in the State's weaving community and acknowledged their contribution towards preserving and promoting the rich handloom tradition of Sikkim.
She highlighted the achievement of Ms Sheetal Tamang, National Awardee, and encouraged more weavers from the State to come forward and pursue opportunities at the national level.
The Secretary also outlined various initiatives undertaken by the Department to enhance and upgrade the skills of weavers through training programmes under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme. She further highlighted the efforts of the State Government towards preserving the State's rich culture and traditions, including the initiative to encourage the wearing of traditional attire once a week.
Urging the weaving community to make full use of the opportunities and support provided by the State Government, she stated that, from next year onwards, weavers will also be felicitated in recognition of their contribution to the handloom sector and the preservation of the State's cultural heritage.
In his address, Director, DHH, Mr Tshering Tobgay Bhutia, elaborated on the various benefits and support extended by the State Government to the weaving community. He highlighted the initiatives undertaken by the Department to promote and strengthen the handloom sector, including the provision of stipends to weavers and various skill development training programmes aimed at enhancing their capabilities.
He also spoke about the efforts of the Department towards preserving and promoting the State's rich weaving tradition and acknowledged the contributions of those who have played a significant role in nurturing the weaving culture of Sikkim. He further appreciated the dedication and contribution of the State's weavers in strengthening local communities and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the State.
Thereafter, the Chief Guest, along with other dignitaries, launched a new handloom range designed by Ms Rickzing Choden, along with bamboo fabric shawls produced by the Goom-Kitam Cluster.
Following that, Weavers' Identity Cards and Yarn Passbooks were also distributed, while Self-Help Groups (SHGs) were provided with raw materials to support their weaving activities. The programme also featured cultural performances.
Also present were Chairman, DHH, Mr N B Gurung, OSD, DHH, Mr M B Chettri, Secretary, Commerce and Industries Department, Ms Karma D Youtso, Joint Director, DHH, Mr Tshering Dorjee Gyamtso, weavers from all six districts, members of the SHGs, and other dignitaries.
The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Joint Director, DHH, Ms Kumari Chettri.