MANITEX 2026 Opens at Nilakuthi; CM Announces Plan for Separate Handloom and Handicrafts Department

IMPHAL, November 5, 2026: The Manipur International Textile Expo (MANITEX) 2026 commenced at Urban Haat, Nilakuthi, Imphal East, under the theme “Weave for Togetherness: Many Threads, One Manipur.”

During the inaugural programme, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh announced that the state government would take steps to establish a separate department exclusively for Handloom and Handicrafts to provide greater attention to the sector.

The expo, organised by the Directorate of Handlooms and Textiles under the Department of Textiles, Commerce and Industry, Government of Manipur, is scheduled to run from November 6 to 9, 2026.

CM Highlights Handloom Sector's Economic and Cultural Importance

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh acknowledged the progress made in the handloom and handicrafts sector and emphasised its role in strengthening Manipur's economy and promoting its cultural identity beyond the state's geographical boundaries.

He noted that, alongside sports, art and culture, the handloom sector has significant potential to showcase Manipur's rich heritage and craftsmanship.

The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of ensuring that various schemes introduced by the Government of India reach weavers and artisans on time. He called for collective efforts to improve their livelihoods and strengthen the sector.

Weaving Equipment Distributed, Coffee Table Book Released

As part of the opening-day programme, frames, looms and accessories were distributed to weavers.

A coffee table book titled “Exploring Manipuri Textures in Interior Design (Home Furnishing)” was also released.

The programme further highlighted the construction of individual work sheds under the Imphal East Mega Handloom Cluster and the Small Cluster Development Programme of the National Handloom Development Programme.

Dignitaries Attend Inaugural Programme

The inaugural function was presided over by Kh. Ibomcha Singh. Rajeev Thakur, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur, and Anurag Bajpai, IFS, Additional Chief Secretary in charge of Textiles, Commerce and Industries, Tribal Affairs and Hills, and Forest and Environment, attended the event.

MLAs Nishikanta Sapam of Keishamthong, Premchandra of Kumbi and Kh. Ibomcha Singh of Lamlai Assembly Constituency were also present.

MANITEX 2026 aims to promote Manipur's handloom and textile heritage while providing a platform for weavers and textile entrepreneurs to showcase their products, traditional skills and craftsmanship.