SHILLONG, Jan 29: The College of Community Science, Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, in collaboration with ICAR-NINFET Kolkata, ICAR-CICR Nagpur, Deendayal Research Institute, and ICAR-CRIJAF Barrackpore, inaugurated a three-day National Symposium on ‘Threads of Heritage: Exploring Textiles and Natural Fibres’ at the College of Post-Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences (CPGSAS) in Umiam, Barapani. The event, running from January 27 to 29, 2025, aims to highlight India’s rich legacy of textiles and natural fibers.
The inaugural function was graced by Conrad Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, who attended as the Chief Guest. In his address, Sangma emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous textile traditions and promoting sustainable practices to benefit both artisans and the broader textile industry. He commended the organizers for bringing together experts, academicians, and artisans on a unified platform to share knowledge and ideas.
The event was also attended by MLA Archana Chitnis of Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh, who has served as Minister of Education in the state. In her speech, Chitnis lauded the Chief Minister for his efforts in advancing the Jal Jeevan Mission. She also praised the Vice Chancellor for his contributions to improving innovative practices in Madhya Pradesh, particularly in connecting agriculture and nutrition for progress in the field of nutrition.
Chitnis took the opportunity to reflect on the vision of Prime Minister Modi, who transformed the “Look East” policy into the “Act East” approach. She said, “Rather than asking why I am here, ask yourself why you are here,” reinforcing the importance of being present to actively engage with the East and contribute to its growth.
Atul Jain, General Secretary of the Deen Dayal Research Institute, was also present as a Guest of Honour. He was joined by artisans, weavers, researchers, and investors from across India. During his speech, Nanaji Deshmukh reflected on the importance of indigenous and traditional wisdom passed down by previous generations. He spoke about the holistic development model inspired by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s philosophy of integral humanism, underscoring the sustainable potential of traditional knowledge.
The event was presided over by Dr. Anupam Mishra, Vice-Chancellor of CAU, Imphal, who stressed the importance of research and innovation in the textile industry. Dr. Mishra highlighted the untapped potential of Northeast India’s natural resources, such as fibers from banana pseudostems, ramie, jute, sisal, flax, and pineapple leaves, for applications in eco-fashion and technical textiles.
As part of the inaugural program, several artisans were felicitated for their outstanding contributions to preserving and promoting traditional textile arts. Additionally, four Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) were recognized for their work in supporting the local textile industry.
The program also included the release of several books. These included Developmental Activities for Sustainable Changes in the Satellite Village by Dr. Kh. R. Aimol and Dr. Jyoti V. Vastrad, Institutional Profile – 2024 written by Prof. Jyoti V. Vastrad, Dr. Ranima Saikia, and Dr. Pavana Kumar ST, and The Souvenir: National Symposium on Threads of Heritage – Exploring Traditional Textiles and Natural Fibres published by the College of Community Science. Additionally, The Curious Kid’s Guide, edited and designed by Dr. Narmada Hidangmayum, Livees Tongsin, and Vimezino Pucho, was launched as an educational and fun book aimed at encouraging learning and curiosity among children.
