Ziro, May 3: The Department of Industries in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Kolkata, held a one-day workshop-cum-seminar under the Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme (CHCDS) of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India at Ziro today. 
The event saw participation from over 70 artisans from across the Lower Subansiri district. The workshop aimed at enhancing craftsmanship of traditional Arunachal handicrafts and handcrafted textiles and to help them expand market reach.
Till date six workshops have already been held successfully in Namsai, Tezu, and Miao benefiting more than 300 artisans.
The workshop at Ziro was inaugurated by Vivek H.P., Deputy Commissioner of Lower Subansiri, along with Zilla Parishad Member of 12-Reru constituency, Nani Jailang.
In his address, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted NIFT’s pivotal role as a premier institution in the fashion and design sector and urged artisans to fully leverage such platforms to upgrade their skills and boost their marketing capabilities. He pointed out that markets like Shillong were filled with Naga shawls, while products from Arunachal Pradesh artisans remained under-represented — an opportunity to be tapped through improved production and marketing strategies.
Mudang Tago, ADI-Ziro welcomed all participants and NIFT officials on behalf of the Industries Department. The workshop was led by Prof. Jayati Mukherjee, Associate Professor & Chairperson, F&LA Design Department, and Prof. Sanjib Kumar Das, Associate Professor & Center Coordinator - Leather Design, NIFT Kolkata, along with a team of expert designers - Anamika Debnath, Associate Professor (Fashion Design) & Head of Resource Centre, NIFT Kolkata and Anwesha Mukherjee, Design & Craft Expert, NIFT & NID designer.
Centered around the theme “Creating Avenues to a New Identity,” the sessions aimed to enhance artisans' knowledge of raw materials, production techniques, and market linkages. The workshop promoted sustainable practices, design innovation, and the empowerment of traditional artisans to succeed in both national and global markets.
Artisans were encouraged to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, focusing on product quality, innovation, and market readiness. Discussions also explored tribal motifs and beadwork, particularly those of the Apatani tribe, while highlighting differences among various tribal crafts forms. Experts presented historical perspectives on motifs from Northeast India, supported by research and documentation, and engaged participants in interactive sessions to examine local design trends and patterns from across the country.
The event was also attended by Toko Okey, Assistant Director (Textile & Handicraft), Dinsung Hage (AD, Industries), Rohit Sahu SPMU, PM Vishwakarma and Maga Aminta, District Mission Manager (ArSRLM).

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
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