As part of the ongoing RAMP program under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Department of Industries and Commerce, in collaboration with Nagaland Industrial Development Corporation (NIDC) with support from Department of Underdeveloped Areas (DUDA) successfully organized the “Apparel Technology Workshop: Redefining Tradition with Tech” on 4th and 5th March , 2025 at Mongken Apparel Unit, Sovima, Chumoukedima.
A total of 58 entrepreneurs and MSMEs from across Nagaland participated in each workshop, demonstrating a growing interest in integrating modern technology with traditional apparel craftsmanship. To ensure inclusivity, suitable stay arrangements were made for participants from remote areas. The workshop aimed to enhance knowledge on new handloom techniques, the fusion of tradition with modern fashion, fabric selection, textile printing, advanced industrial machinery usage, and skill development.
The workshop featured six technology clinics covering topics, fusion of handloom weaving and modern technology, understanding fabric types, textile printing technologies, digitization of motifs and patterns, optimizing apparel production workflow, and sustainable practices in production.
The event commenced with a welcome address by the RAMP team, followed by a presentation on understanding MSMEs, the RAMP program, and the importance of Udyam registration. Industry experts led the sessions, including Vilhousa Movi, an award-winning fashion designer and entrepreneur recognized for his contributions to creative fashion innovation; Vekuvolu Dozo, a national and state award-winning weaver specializing in Backstrap Loom and indigenous weaving techniques; and the team from Mongken Apparel Unit. During the workshop, experts encouraged participants to incorporate traditional tribal motifs into contemporary ready-to-wear garments. Innovative fabric options such as banana fibre and stinging nettle plant fibre, alongside traditional cotton, were introduced. Another session emphasized the importance of producing market-driven garments using breathable, weather-friendly fabrics. Experts discussed cost-effective production strategies, customer engagement through storytelling, and the significance of sample-making before finalizing designs. The workshop also underscored effective marketing through print and digital media, as well as sustainability.
The Mongken team conducted live demonstrations on using Illustrator for apparel design, promoting the adoption of modern digital tools. Participants also had hands-on experience with advanced machinery, including embroidery machines, buttonhole and button stitching machines, overlock and interlock sewing machines, single needle sewing machines, fabric cutting machines, digital textile printing (Pre & Post Digital Textile Machine), Direct to Film (DTF), Direct to Garment (DTG), sublimation printing machines, and CAD software for motif digitization.
The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks from the RAMP team and Yanger Lemtur, in charge of Mongken Apparel Unit. The RAMP team encouraged participants to integrate technology with traditional techniques to enhance efficiency and reduce production time and labour. They also stressed the importance of Udyam registration for MSMEs to access credit and national MSME schemes. Lemtur commended participants for their enthusiasm and was pleased to hear from their feedback that they were leaving with new insights and self-made products. He urged interested entrepreneurs to utilize the Mongken facility as a Common Facility Centre for production and brand-building.
RAMP, a World Bank-supported initiative, aims to enhance MSMEs in Nagaland by improving market access, credit availability, and capacity building. Through its Technology Clinics, the program equips entrepreneurs with technical skills and exposure to advanced machinery, fostering modernization and competitiveness. These clinics bring in experts and technocrats to guide MSMEs in upgrading their units and staying abreast of emerging technologies. The success of the Apparel Technology Workshop underscores the commitment of the Ministry of MSME, Department of Industries and Commerce, Nagaland Industrial Development Corporation (NIDC), and Mongken Apparel Unit under Department of Underdeveloped Areas in driving technology adoption and skill development. The RAMP program continues to spearhead innovation and sustainability in Nagaland's apparel sector, paving the way for a dynamic and competitive industry.
(DIPR)
