The Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, in collaboration with the Government of Meghalaya, on Saturday inaugurated the multi day EKTA Exhibition cum Knowledge Sharing for Textile Advantage at the Integrated Textiles and Tourism Complex (ITTC), Nongpoh, Ri-Bhoi. The programme aims to highlight Meghalaya’s distinctive textile heritage and strengthen its growing artisan ecosystem. The exhibition, held from 6th to 9th December 2025, is themed “From Loom to Lifestyle: A Future Woven with Tradition.” The initiative seeks to promote India’s diverse textile traditions while advancing technology integration, market access, and investment opportunities for artisans in Meghalaya.
The ITTC in Ri-Bhoi is a flagship project of the Department of Textiles, Government of Meghalaya, supported by the Ministry of Textiles. Designed as an immersive cultural and textile destination, the complex integrates craftsmanship, culture, skill development, and tourism. It particularly showcases Meghalaya’s iconic Ryndia (Eri silk) weaving traditions. The event was inaugurated by Giriraj Singh, Hon’ble Union Minister of Textiles Pabitra Margherita, Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles; and Metbah Lyngdoh, Hon’ble Minister for Textiles, Government of Meghalaya, in the presence of senior officials from the Government of India and Government of Meghalaya.The dignitaries praised Meghalaya’s unique textile sector, including Ryndia (Eri silk), Muga silk, jute crafts, and traditional weaving practices of the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia communities.
In his address, Metbah Lyngdoh, reaffirmed the State’s commitment to improving artisan livelihoods and enhancing the visibility of indigenous textiles on national and global platforms. He welcomed the initiative as a step towards integrating local artisans into modern textile value chains, creating direct market linkages, and attracting investment into the sector. The Union Minister and Minister of State emphasized the potential for Meghalaya to emerge as a significant textile and craft destination. They stressed the importance of supporting tribal weaving clusters through skill development, entrepreneurship, and technology upgradation to enhance productivity and sustain traditional knowledge systems.