IMPHAL, December 16: None of the products including handloom and handicraft which are made in the state are registered with the Geographical Indication, and as such unable to make claims whenever the products are copied or imitated by someone else, said Commerce and Industries, minister, Govindas Konthoujam today.
Speaking at the distribution function of loom and accessories of Imphal Handloom Cluster at Common Facilities Centre (CFC) at Nongthombam Leikai today, the minister elaborated that there is a need for all products to be registered.
Today’s function was organized by the Institute of Entrepreneurs today.
During the function 40 looms and 600 accessories of looms were distributed to the beneficiaries.
He continued that in order to promote the handcraft and handloom products of the state, the government has already urged the Ministry of Textile to open 36 clusters in the state; and added that as per the report of Handloom census 2010- 2011 the state holds the third position in the production of handloom and handicraft products in the country and is the first amongst the Northeastern states.
Apart from sports, handcraft and handloom products bring laurels to the state, he said.
He however lamented that the participation of male in the industry is minimal.
In order to promote the products of the state, it is necessary for the men of the state to actively participate in the field, he continued.
He further said that without differentiating works for men and women, everyone should work hard.
There is no lack of market for the finished products, he said before adding that if the production can be increased and be maintained, he would surely bring more entrepreneurs from outside the state or country.
He said that there is a scheme which provides solar home lighting to all weavers, and as such the weavers need to be aware of the scheme and avail of it.
The minister also assured that a power loom training will be held at Takyel Industries soon.
Parliamentary Secretary, MOBC and SC, Md Amin Shah also mentioned that the work culture of the state needs much improvement.