Manipur has a great potential for development of fashion industry on the basis of products of various ethnic groups in the state, according to chief minister, Mr. O. Ibobi.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of a Vocational Institute of The Apparel Training and Design Centre (ATDC) at the DIC complex, Porompat in the state capital of Imphal recently, Mr. Ibobi said, Textile sector is the most employment generating one which provides jobs to 45 million people directly and indirectly. Apparel industry provides 14 per cent to whole national industrial products and shares 17 per cent of the country’s export earnings.

Stating that Manipur is composed of various ethnic communities having their own unique textile products, the chief minister maintained that the handloom products of the state are famous both inside and outside the country. He expressed confidence that there is scope for development of fashion industry on the basis of products of various ethnic groups in Manipur. He said that such kind of training programs on designs would be helpful in creating employment to the youth and assured his government full assistance to the ATDC for its programme in future.

Mr. Gobindas Konthougan, State’s minister for commerce and industry in his keynote address said that ATDC Smart Centre will be upgraded to the level of Vocational Institute shortly to enable its trainees get jobs of higher post. So far 200 youths have been assisted by ATDC in getting jobs, he added.

AEPC chairman, Mr. Virendra Uppal, states additional chief secretory, vice chairman of ATDC, among others, were present at the function.