Meghalaya govt declares Umden –Diwon as Eri Silk villages

SHILLONG: The Government of Meghalaya on February 12, declared Umden –Diwon, under Raid Nongtluh in Ri Bhoi district, as the State’s first Eri Silk villages, much like the Hai Aan Silk Village in Vietnam and Sualkuchi of Assam.

The 'declaration programme' was attended by the Minister in charge of Textiles, Banteidor Lyngdoh, local MLA Mayralborn Syiem, Commissioner Secretary of Textiles, FR Kharkongor, Secretary of Textiles, FM Dopth, Ri Bhoi Deputy Commissioner RM Kurbah and other officials besides the weavers and spinners of the area.

Addressing the gathering of weavers, Minister in charge of Textiles, Banteidor Lyngdoh highlighted the efforts of the Department to promote and develop handloom and Sericulture activities.

“This official recognition and declaration would further introduce capacity building, upscaling in design, technological interventions, market linkages for Eri and for the village besides attracting visitors, tourist and researchers," Lyngdoh said.

Reportedly, Umden–Diwon villages have emerged as the epi-centre of Eri Culture in the State's Sericulture and Handloom sector with over 70 per cent of full-time active weavers.

The declaration of Silk Villages is also expected to contribute to capacity building, and other socio-economical aspects, like women empowerment.

With this initiative, Meghalaya’s exclusive Eri product - 'Ryndia' will also be lifted from a cottage Industry to a fashion and lifestyle concept, under the tagline “From Thread to Trend” alongside MeghTex, Shillong.

A Design Resource Centre (DRC) in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) will also collaborate to promote the stakeholders.

The programme also witnessed performances from local folk artists and a 'vibrant' display of Eri Fashion by local designers.

(Edited by Gabriel G Momin)