Minister Prof. Lalnilawma Graces 11th National Handloom Day Celebration in Saitual

Saitual, Aug 2025: The 11th National Handloom Day celebration, organised by Mizoram Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd. (ZOHANDCO), was held today at Dorawta Hall, Saitual, with Minister of State Prof. Lalnilawma as the chief guest. The event also featured the inauguration of a Handloom Exhibition.

In his address, Prof. Lalnilawma expressed appreciation to ZOHANDCO for organising the celebration in Saitual. He emphasised that Mizo people have a deep connection with weaving, tracing it back to ancestral traditions, and shared his own personal background in weaving.

The Minister explained that National Handloom Day is observed in memory of the 1905 Swadeshi Movement, which promoted self-reliance and resistance against British influence, particularly through handloom products. He encouraged the preservation of weaving as a source of both cultural pride and economic self-sufficiency, pointing out that handloom is not merely fashion but a vital expression of Mizo heritage.

Prof. Lalnilawma urged weavers to continue producing high-quality work so that Mizoram can gain wider recognition. He assured that the government, through the Commerce & Industry Department, is committed to supporting and promoting weavers. He also expressed hope that new Mizo designs will reach global markets at competitive prices, bringing economic benefits to local artisans.

The Minister called upon the people of Saitual to visit and support the exhibition. ZOHANDCO Chairman Lalliansawta also spoke, highlighting the national significance of Handloom Day and the need for community participation to strengthen the handloom sector.

The event, chaired by ZOHANDCO Manager C. Lalrinmawia, featured speeches from Rev. Thangchhuaka PCI (Saitual Pastor) and the Minister himself, alongside Chairman Lalliansawta. The Minister was accompanied by Saitual DC Dr. Lalngura Tlau and ZOHANDCO officials.

A total of 30 exhibition stalls were set up, attracting enthusiastic participation from both exhibitors and visitors. The exhibition will continue until the morning of August 9. On the afternoon of the opening day, a training session for Self Help Groups (SHGs) involved in weaving was also held, with strong participation from Saitual-based SHGs and artisans.