Although Weaving is a favourite hobby of almost all Manipuri women as they create world class garments, unfortunately, the women artisans of the state have not yet got their dues in respect of their wages. However, things are changing fast.

Now, Manipuri women will not only create best of fabrics on their handlooms but will also earn handsome money out of it. Store of Fabindia, a popular brand that deals with handloom and handicraft products to put up designer palazzos, shrugs and kurtis made out of Manipuri fabrics. Also Goa-based textile company has placed an order for the products.

According to an estimate, around 33.7 per cent of the state’s households are associated with the handloom industry. In fact, the handloom industry comes second only to agriculture in terms of employment generation for women in the state. Unfortunately, the weavers have failed to promote their products and turn handloom industry into a profitable business as the state has been ravaged by militancy for several decades.

Also lack of contact with domestic and international market space has kept the exquisite textiles limited to the state market only. As market space is limited, the profit margin remains restricted.

Most products lack a national and international appeal. Hence, it is decided to work upon a skills upgrade for the artisans, provision of cheap yarn and adequate market links, according to welfare organizations.

– Apparel and Textile News, Apparel Talk, Indian Apparel