The Department of Textiles, Meghalaya, has been recognized with a Special Award at the prestigious Textiles Sustainability Awards 2024-25, presented by the Confederation of Indian Textile Industries (CITI). The award was announced during the Bharat Tex 2025 Global Textiles Expo, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, celebrating sustainability, textiles, and fashion.
Recognition for Reviving Indigenous Textile Heritage
The CITI Secretary-General commended Meghalaya’s Department of Textiles for its exceptional efforts in reviving the region’s textile heritage. The jury was highly impressed by the department’s dedication to preserving indigenous textile traditions and ensuring sustainability in textile production.
As part of its recognition, the department received the CITI Textiles Heritage Reviver Award, which was established in honor of Alekh to acknowledge individuals and organizations that play a crucial role in:
- Reviving indigenous textile heritage
- Promoting sustainable textile production
- Fostering innovation in weaving techniques
- Empowering local weaving communities
Meghalaya’s Textiles Secretary Receives Award
Frederick Roy Kharkongor, Principal Secretary of the Department of Textiles, Meghalaya, accepted the award on behalf of the state from Pabitra Margherita, Union Minister of State for Textiles, Government of India. The award ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Textiles and other dignitaries, marking a milestone in Meghalaya’s efforts to strengthen its textile industry.
The ceremony, which took place on February 17, 2025, was the grand conclusion of the Bharat Tex Global Textiles Expo 2025. The event showcased remarkable achievements in textile sustainability and celebrated India’s rich handloom traditions.
Showcasing Sustainable Textile Practices
The Textiles Sustainability Awards 2024-25 highlighted the best practices adopted by awardees to create a more eco-friendly and sustainable textile industry. The event featured several key moments, including:
- The “Earth Loom – Threads of Heritage” Fashion Show, which celebrated India’s sustainable weaves.
- Presentations by award-winning textile organizations and artisans showcasing innovative techniques in sustainable weaving and production.
- Participation from designers across the country, including Meghalaya’s own designers who displayed traditional and contemporary designs rooted in indigenous textile heritage.
Meghalaya’s Ongoing Efforts in Textile Sustainability
Since 2019, the Department of Textiles, Meghalaya, has been actively promoting indigenous textile heritage. Noteworthy initiatives include:
Recognition of Umden-Diwon as Meghalaya’s First ERI Silk Village
In 2021, Umden-Diwon village in Ri Bhoi district was officially recognized as Meghalaya’s first ERI Silk village. This initiative aims to preserve traditional silk weaving techniques and provide better economic opportunities for artisans.
Establishment of the Design Innovation Research Centre (DIRC)
In 2022, the state established the Design Innovation Research Centre (DIRC) to highlight the entire Ryndia textile value chain – from farm to fibre, fabric, and fashion. The center plays a vital role in researching and promoting sustainable textile production.
Push for a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag for Ryndia
The Department of Textiles, Meghalaya, is actively working towards securing a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Ryndia, a fabric unique to Meghalaya. This initiative will help protect the authenticity of the weave and provide better market access for local weavers.
Participation in National and International Exhibitions
To showcase Meghalaya’s rich textile heritage, the department has been actively participating in national and international exhibitions, helping local artisans and weavers gain global recognition.
Support for Handloom Clusters and Capacity-Building Programs
The state has been implementing handloom cluster programs and conducting capacity-building workshops to empower weavers with modern techniques while preserving traditional weaving practices. These programs ensure that Meghalaya’s textile industry remains competitive and sustainable.
The Special Award at the Textiles Sustainability Awards 2024-25 is a testament to Meghalaya’s commitment to sustainable textile practices and the revival of indigenous weaving traditions. With initiatives such as the recognition of Umden-Diwon as an ERI Silk village, the establishment of DIRC, and the push for a GI tag for Ryndia, Meghalaya continues to pave the way for a more sustainable and globally recognized textile industry.
By integrating traditional textile techniques with modern sustainability practices, Meghalaya is not only preserving its rich cultural heritage but also creating new economic opportunities for its weavers. The recognition at Bharat Tex 2025 further strengthens its position as a key player in India’s sustainable textile sector.
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