Members of various Self Help Groups (SHGs) across Zunheboto block participating in the National Handloom Day celebration on August 7.
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | August 7
In a spirited tribute to indigenous craftsmanship and rural self-reliance, Village Level Organizations (VLOs) operating under the Block Mission Management Unit (BMMU) Zunheboto Block launched extensive celebrations on August 7 to mark National Handloom Day.
This year's celebration was marked by the active participation of womenfolk from 18 VLOs under the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM), Zunheboto Block, Zunheboto District
Commencing at 9:00 am across respective VLO office premises, the district-wide observance was aimed at honouring the legacy of local weaving traditions while commemorating the historic Swadeshi Movement of 1905, which first championed indigenous production and community self-sufficiency.
The primary torchbearers of the day’s activities were women members of local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) who were involved in weaving, knitting, and traditional crochet. Transforming local VLO centers into bustling hubs of artisanal activity, these women artisans showcased their skills in crafting iconic Sumi Naga shawls alongside a wide array of handwoven goods.
“Our main focus in observing this day is to preserve our identity, tradition practices and craftsmanship,” Annkali K Yeptho, Block Programme Manager, Zunheboto Block told The Morung Express on Friday.
This celebration comes under ‘One theme, one Month’ which is part of SISD Yearly Thematic calendar 2026-27, she informed.
“Through such activities, we can preserve the richness and beauty of our heritage which have been passed down from generations,” Yeptho said, while encouraging everyone to appreciate local artisans and support locally-made handloom products. She emphasized that supporting local weavers is essential to safeguarding cultural heritage while building financial independence.
“Today, as we celebrate National Handloom Day, we proudly honour the rich handloom heritage and traditional craftsmanship of our people,” Iloka K Yeptho, Area Coordinator stated.
He also shared that the event was organised to showcase the revival of treasured traditions of weaving, knitting, crochet and other handloom practices. “These activities are not only a symbol of our cultural identity but also a source of dignity, creativity, and sustainable livelihoods for rural families,” he added.
The event included live demonstrations of intricate handloom techniques, allowing seasoned weavers to pass on ancestral knowledge to younger community members. Beyond skill-sharing, the event featured displays of finished handloom products, highlighting the economic potential of traditional crafts and promoting sustainable livelihoods for women across the block.
“Not all products can be finished in a day, so when they are done, they will be put up for sale through various platforms like the SARAS fair, which is organised by the NRLM every year, and during any sales day that we organise. Some of our members also have their own shops and social media platforms, where they are able to sell off their products,” Yeptho added.
