Dimapur: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio virtually launched the Chief Minister’s Yarn Bank Scheme at the Chief Minister’s Residential Complex in Kohima on Friday on the occasion of the 12th National Handloom Day.
Rio described the initiative as a landmark step towards strengthening Nagaland’s handloom sector and improving the livelihoods of thousands of weavers across the state.
He said National Handloom Day is not merely a celebration of a traditional craft but a tribute to a living heritage that has shaped the identity, culture and spirit of the Naga people for generations.
He added that handloom represents the artistry, resilience and creativity of the people, with every shawl, wrap and woven motif carrying the stories, traditions and values of various Naga tribes.
Rio paid tribute to the weavers of Nagaland, especially women, whom he described as the backbone of the handloom sector.
He appreciated their dedication, perseverance and extraordinary craftsmanship in preserving the state’s rich textile heritage despite changing times.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by weavers, Rio said access to good-quality natural yarn at affordable prices has remained a major concern.
“Many artisans have been forced to travel long distances to procure raw materials, bear high transportation costs and pay inflated prices, affecting productivity, reducing incomes and limiting the growth of the sector,” he said.
To address these challenges, he said the scheme has been established as a dedicated and centralised facility at the District Industries Centre, State Industrial Park, Toluvi, Dimapur.
He said the Yarn Bank will serve as a reliable source of high-quality natural yarn for weavers across Nagaland.
Under the scheme, natural yarns, including cotton, eri silk, muga silk, bamboo fibre and other natural fibre blends, will be made available at mill-gate prices. In addition, the state government will provide a 15% subsidy, making quality raw materials more affordable and accessible to eligible weavers.
Rio said the scheme is expected to benefit between 5,000 and 10,000 weavers every year.
Eligible weavers holding a Yarn Pass Book will be able to procure yarn directly from the Yarn Bank through a transparent, reliable and efficient distribution system.