Sunday, February 3, 2008

Handloom Expo starts at Kokrajhar

KOKRAJHAR, Feb 2: The Special Handloom Expo 2008 organized by the Assam Apex Weavers and Artisans Co-operative Federation Ltd (ARTFED) in collaboration with the Development Commission for Handloom, Ministry of Textile, Government of India and co-sponsored by the WPT and BC Department, Government of Asom got underway at Rajmela field, Kokrajhar starting today.
Biswajit Daimary who chaired the inaugural function said that the aim of the expo was to facilitate the consumers to purchase genuine handloom fabrics from potential district co-operative societies, corporation and Federation of the State and other participants from different parts of the country. He said the expo will create awareness among the weavers and others about the present economic scenario as well as the global trend of handwoven textiles through exposition and demonstration.
BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary formally inaugurated the expo by lighting the ceremonial lamp. In his inaugural speech, Mohilary said the special handloom expo at Kokrajhar will inspire the local weavers and artisans to excel. He further said the BTC authority was looking forward to develop the handloom and textile section in the region and to promote the traditional weavers. He also said a textile apparel park would be setup at Kokrajhar as one of the clauses of the BTC accords the textile apparel park if implemented will be benefited for the weavers in handloom unit to compete with the international market. He further stressed that the traditional products and design must be protected at any cost.
The Minister of Agriculture and WPT&BC Pramila Rani Brahma said the handloom expo will encourage the indigenous weavers to enhance their productivity. She said the traditional weaving among the tribal women and indigenous communities is being largely practised. The Bodo and other indigenous women have their own skill of weaving and this skill needs to be modernized in globalize forum.
Brahma mentioned that the traditional Bodo fabrics, design etc were being stolen by the designers and textile experts from Mumbai, Kolkata and other parts of the country. She asked the ARTFED Handloom and Textile department, Government of Asom and BTC to keep a strict vigil on stealing of traditional designs.
BTC Deputy chief Kampa Borgoyary said the Indian fabric has the tremendous market potential. He said the council has been working for the uplift of rural economy through handloom and textile industries as well as empowerment of women. The meeting was also addressed by MP SK Bwismuthiary, BTC speaker Reo Reoa Narzary, executive member Hitesh Basumatary and ARTFED MD N Ranapatgiri.

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