IMPHAL, August 18: The valedictory function of a 15-Day Skill Development Training Programme on loom based product of Water Hyacinth Craft was held today at Kongba Nandeibam Leikai, Kongba Road, Imphal.
The programme had been organised by the Ereima Women’s Welfare Association (EWWA) under the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation (NEDFi).
Speaking at the function, NEDFi DGM Oli Bohra maintained that water hyacinth is vastly available in the North-eastern States and its products are in high demand in the South East Asian Market.
Hyacinth craft if encouraged could improve the State’s economy, she said while assuring support from NEDFi in the form of loans.
Today’s valedictory function was also attended by general manager DIC, Imphal East Th Arunkumar Singh, NEDFi, Manipur branch manager Priyobratta Gurumayum and vice chairman of Indian Council of Small Industries, Kolkata P Loken Singh.
Arunkumar said that there is need to develop skills in handloom to attract more buyers from the international market. Handloom and handicraft products are in high demand and the income generated could be much profitable if the quality of the products is maintained.
Although water hyacinth is available in other South East Asian countries, the State could maintain its own indigenous designs and style, he said.
He also said that the department of Industries known as DIC will extend its support for handloom and crafts in the State.
Certificates to all the participants of the training programme were also distributed as part of the function.