KOHIMA : Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio on Friday launched the Chief Minister’s Yarn Bank Scheme to provide subsidised natural yarn to weavers, saying the initiative will strengthen the state’s handloom sector and improve the livelihoods of thousands of artisans.
Launching the scheme virtually from the Chief Minister’s Residential Complex on the occasion of the 12th National Handloom Day, Rio said the yarn bank would supply natural yarn at mill-gate prices, with the state government providing a 15 per cent subsidy.
Describing it as a landmark initiative to strengthen the state’s handloom sector and improve the livelihoods of thousands of weavers, Rio said National Handloom Day is not merely a celebration of a traditional craft but a tribute to a living heritage that has shaped the identity, culture and spirit of the Naga people for generations.
He said every shawl, wrap and woven motif reflects the artistry, resilience and traditions of the various Naga tribes.
Paying tribute to the state’s weavers, particularly women, whom he described as the backbone of the handloom sector, Rio acknowledged the challenges they face in accessing quality natural yarn at affordable prices.
Many artisans, he said, have had to travel long distances to procure raw materials, bearing high transportation costs and inflated prices that affect productivity and incomes.
The yarn bank will supply natural yarns, including cotton, eri silk, muga silk, bamboo fibre and other natural fibre blends, at mill-gate prices, with the state government providing a 15 per cent subsidy to make quality raw materials more affordable.
The CM said the scheme is expected to benefit between 5,000 and 10,000 weavers annually. Eligible weavers holding a yarn pass book will be able to procure yarn directly through a transparent and efficient distribution system.
Describing the initiative as more than a supply mechanism, Rio said it reflects the government’s commitment to reducing raw material costs, ensuring timely availability of quality yarn and creating better opportunities for artisans to improve productivity and household incomes while preserving Nagaland’s textile heritage.
He said the initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of preserving the state’s cultural heritage while creating sustainable economic opportunities by strengthening the rural economy, empowering women and promoting entrepreneurship.
Calling on eligible weavers to avail themselves of the scheme, he urged government departments, cooperative societies, self-help groups and community institutions to ensure its benefits reach every deserving artisan.
Advisor for Industries and Commerce department Hekani Jakhalu said the launch of the scheme marked a significant milestone in addressing one of the biggest challenges faced by weavers — access to quality natural yarn at affordable prices.
She thanked Rio for supporting the handloom and textile sector and for allocating funds under the Chief Minister’s Innovative Fund 2025–26, which enabled the establishment of the Yarn Bank. (Source: PTI)
