KOHIMA, June 6: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday inaugurated the newly constructed multi-storeyed Nagaland State Emporium Complex, emphasizing the urgent need to preserve and promote the state’s rich tribal heritage. Addressing a gathering during the inauguration, Rio called the complex a long-awaited infrastructure that would serve both as a cultural symbol and a centre for economic growth.

Describing the emporium as “the pride and image of the state,” the Chief Minister stressed that the facility should go beyond functioning as a mere showroom for textiles and handicrafts. He envisioned it as a cultural destination for both locals and tourists that reflects the unity in diversity of Nagaland’s 17 tribes and various sub-tribes.

Highlighting the distinctive motifs, colours, and designs of Naga tribes, Rio urged artisans, weavers, and designers to collaborate within approved frameworks to maintain authenticity. He called for documentation, standardisation, and vetting of all tribal products by the respective tribal bodies.

“There should be a system—designs must be approved, samples created, and then taken up for mass production. We cannot allow everyone to make whatever they think is good. Without structure, we lose identity and market consistency,” Rio said.

He also stressed the importance of promoting Naga cuisine, noting its growing popularity in urban centres like Delhi and Pune. However, he expressed concern over the lack of proper documentation of traditional ingredients and recipes. Rio called for efforts to standardise and brand Naga food to enhance its appeal and recognition.

Encouraging the use of indigenous materials such as Naga silk, banana fibres, and traditional cotton, Rio advocated for a shift from raw material exports to value-added production within the state.

“Let’s stop exporting raw goods. Let’s finish them here and fetch better prices,” he urged.

Speaking on the broader North-eastern handloom and handicraft industry, the Chief Minister acknowledged that Nagaland’s production still lags behind other states like Assam and Manipur. He pledged to push for better support and coordination at the regional level.

Among the key proposals mentioned was the establishment of a Yarn Bank to ensure quality and consistency in textile production. Rio also stressed the need for micro-financing support for local weavers and entrepreneurs to strengthen the creative economy.