IMPHAL, Nov 8 (NNN): After a two-year gap caused by the Manipur violence, the Manipur International Textile Expo (MANITEX) made a comeback this year, marking a symbolic step towards normalcy and peace in the state. The five-day event was inaugurated by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Saturday at Urban Haat, Nilakuthi, Imphal, with participation from 16 countries.
Organised by the Directorate of Handlooms and Textiles under the Department of Textiles, Commerce and Industry, Government of Manipur, MANITEX 2025 is being held under the theme “Weaving a Sustainable Future: Manipur’s Handloom Heritage to Global Fashion.” Officials said the event aims to showcase Manipur’s rich handloom, handicraft, and textile traditions on a global platform, focusing on eco-friendly fabrics, natural dyes, and sustainable weaving practices rooted in Manipuri culture.
Addressing the inaugural function, Governor Bhalla said MANITEX 2025 is not just an exhibition of fabrics and designs but a celebration of Manipur’s identity, creativity, and craftsmanship. “Each weave tells a story of our people, our culture, and our enduring connection to the land,” he said. “From the hills to the valleys, every community contributes its own unique colours and techniques, reflecting the beautiful diversity that defines Manipur’s textile heritage.”
He added that the event bridges tradition and innovation, connecting artisans, many of them women to national and international markets. “It transforms skill into opportunity and heritage into livelihood, reaffirming that Manipur’s greatest strength lies in the hands of its weavers,” the Governor said.
Governor Bhalla further highlighted that the handloom and textile sector is the “heartbeat” of Manipur’s economy, with women weavers forming its foundation. He praised initiatives like One District One Product (ODOP), PM Mitra Parks, and Digital India e-commerce integration for empowering artisans through technology and market access, reinforcing the ‘Made in Manipur’ brand as a symbol of authenticity and sustainability.
Additional Chief Secretary (Textiles, Commerce & Industry and Transport) Anurag Bajpai, who also attended the function, said the return of MANITEX marks “another step towards restoring normalcy and peace” in the state.
He informed that 16 major international buyers, exporters, and designers are participating from Japan, the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. Among them are international buying houses such as ACE Sourcing (Europe, Asia, Middle East), IDEA NUOVA (USA, Canada, Mexico), ARTISAV EXPO TRADE (Asia and Africa), and Luxe Living (Japan, USA).
A statement issued by the Directorate of Handlooms and Textiles said leading Indian designers like Krishna Mehta Studio and Prama by Pratima Pandey will showcase their collections during the event. Expert sessions featuring IDEA NUOVA, Luxe Living, HEPC, CoFT, CAU, and Manipur University will explore topics such as brand development, market access, and sustainable production.
Participation from machine manufacturers, yarn suppliers, and the National Handloom Development Corporation (NHDC) ensures a complete representation of the textile value chain, the statement added.
“MANITEX 2025 is more than just an expo; it is a declaration of Manipur’s enduring spirit and cultural resilience,” the Directorate said. “Our goal is to harness the power of our sustainable handloom and handicraft heritage to promote inclusive economic growth and strengthen Manipur’s global identity.”
As part of the inaugural ceremony, 3,000 frame looms and accessories were distributed to weavers under the National Handloom Development Programme. Financial assistance was also provided to 60 ex-trainee artisans for purchasing tool kits. The Governor released the Data Book of National and State Awardees of Manipur and unveiled the Handlooms & Textiles Calendar 2026.
