MANITEX 2025 kicks off with spotlight on handloom

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Nov 8 : Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla today inaugurated the Manipur International Textile Expo (MANITEX) 2025 at Urban Haat, Nilakuthi, Imphal.
Organised under the theme “Weaving a Sustainable Future: Manipur’s Handloom Heritage to Global Fashion,” the expo is being organised by the Department of Textiles, Com- merce & Industry and the Directorate of Handloom & Textiles, Government of Manipur.
Handloom buying houses from 16 countries are participating in this year's MANITEX which features over 100 stalls, including some selling and show-casing handloom and handi- craft items made by internally displaced persons (IDPs). 
The objective of MANITEX 2025 is to showcase Manipur’s diverse handloom, handicraft, and textile products on the global stage, with a focus on eco-friendly textiles, natural dyes, and sustainable weaving practices deeply rooted in Manipuri traditions.
During the inaugural function, 3,000 frame looms and accessories were distributed to weavers under the National Handloom Development Programme.
In addition, financial assistance of Rs 30,000 each was provided to 60 ex-trainee artisans for the purchase of tool kits. The Governor also released a data book of National and State awardees of Manipur and unveiled the Handlooms & Textiles Calendar 2026.
Addressing the function which commenced with a variety of cultural programmes, the Governor stated that the handloom sector is not only a cultural identity of Manipur but also the backbone of the State's economy.
MANITEX 2025 is not merely an exhibition of fabrics and designs - it is a proud celebration of Mani-pur’s identity, creativity, and craftsmanship, he said and  added that each weave tells a story of 'our people, our culture, and our enduring connection to the land.'
He also stated that the handloom and handicraft sector plays a pivotal role in promoting Manipur on the global stage.
From the hills to the valleys, every community contributes their own unique themes, colours, and techniques, reflecting the beautiful diversity that defines Manipur’s textile heritage, he said and added that the Expo beautifully bridges tradition and innovation, connecting 'our artisans, many of them women with National and global markets.'
It transforms skill into opportunity and heritage into livelihood, reaffirming that Manipur’s greatest strength lies in the hands of its weavers, the Governor said and added that MANITEX stands as a shining example of how tradition can embrace modernity without losing its soul.
The Governor added that the handloom and textile sector is the heartbeat of Manipur’s economy, with women weavers forming its very foundation.
Through their artistry and resilience, they preserve 'our heritage' while shaping a sustainable future, Bhalla added.
He continued that three handloom products of Manipur Saphee Lanphee, Wangkhei Phee and Moirang Phee have got Geographical Indication (GI) tags.
 Initiatives such as One District One Product (ODOP), PM Mitra Parks, and Digital India e-commerce integration are empowering 'our artisans with technology, innovation, and market access,' he also said.
"Together, these efforts are strengthening the ‘Made in Manipur’ brand, a mark of authenticity, sustainability, and excellence. When we uplift our weavers, we uplift communities, ensuring that Manipur’s legacy continues to inspire the world," the Governor concluded.
Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel said that the Expo aims to nurture local entrepreneurs to export the State's handloom and handicraft items and appealed to the people to make the event successful. Additional Chief Secretary (Textiles, Commerce & Industry and Transport) Anurag Bajpai, Handloom and Textile Director Elangbam Jeeten, Padma Shri awardees, distinguished guests, officials and weavers attended the inaugural function, among others.