Focus on skill development, market access and product innovation for local artisans
Itanagar: In a move aimed at strengthening its traditional industries, the Arunachal Pradesh government has partnered with the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) to accelerate growth in the state’s textile and handicraft sectors.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Mimum Tayeng, Commissioner of the Department of Textiles and Handicrafts and EPCH Executive Director Rajesh Rawat, in the presence of the state minister Nyato Dukama and other senior officials.
The collaboration, as officials termed it, is set to prioritise structured skill development programmes to enhance artisans’ capabilities. At the same time, it will encourage product diversification by aligning indigenous crafts with evolving global trends, thereby improving their competitiveness in wider markets.
Importantly, the initiative also places emphasis on better branding and packaging to increase the visibility and value of traditional products. Additionally, efforts will be made to facilitate participation in national and international trade fairs, ensuring stronger market linkages and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Minister Dukuma expressed optimism about the partnership, stating it would help “empower artisans and showcase Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage on a global platform.” Tayeng highlighted the state’s legacy in bamboo, cane, textiles, and tribal crafts, adding that the MoU would strengthen innovation and market access.
Meanwhile, Rawat reaffirmed EPCH’s commitment to building a robust, export-oriented ecosystem, focusing on quality enhancement and global readiness.
