The HATHKARGHA MELA (SHE) State Handloom Expo, organised by The Directorate of Industries and Commerce, Government of Nagaland and Funded by the Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, under the National Handloom Development Program (NHDP) was officially inaugurated by P. Tokugha Sema, Director of Industries & Commerce, Government of Nagaland, at Kohima Village Ground, Kohima on 27th March 2025. The expo will run from 26th March to 8th April 2025, featuring an exhibit of indigenous textiles and handicrafts.
The event is designed to promote the handloom and handicraft sector, bringing together artisans and weavers from across Nagaland and other states to display their craftsmanship, market their products. The expo will showcase products made from natural fibres such as stinging nettle, orange rhea, indigenous cotton and eri silk. It also has products of local handicraft made from cane, bamboo.
The expo aims to provide weavers with direct market access, helping them gain visibility and financial support. A total of 60 exhibitors will participate, including 48 from handloom sector and 12 from the handicraft sector. Exhibitors The represent all districts of Nagaland as well as States like Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Manipur, and Assam.
As part of the Expo, the Department has initiated the registration of Pechan Cards for participants who do not yet have. This process enables registrants to access a range of schemes and programs offered by the Ministry of Textiles.
(Kazihito T. Kibami IA)
