Dimapur: Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio virtually launched the CM’s Yarn Bank Scheme from Kohima on Friday, marking the 12th National Handloom Day.Calling it a landmark step to strengthen Nagaland’s handloom sector, Rio said the initiative would improve the livelihoods of thousands of weavers across the state. He said the day is not only a celebration of traditional craft but also a tribute to a living heritage that has shaped the identity, culture and spirit of the Naga people for generations.Rio said handloom reflects the artistry, resilience and creativity of the people, with every shawl, wrap and woven motif carrying the stories, traditions and values of the various Naga tribes. He paid tribute to Nagaland’s weavers, especially women, describing them as the backbone of the sector, and praised their dedication and craftsmanship in preserving the state’s textile heritage.Noting that access to good-quality natural yarn at affordable prices has been a longstanding challenge, Rio said many artisans have had to travel long distances to procure raw materials, bear high transportation costs and pay inflated prices — hurting productivity, incomes and sector growth.To address the issue, he said the Yarn Bank has been set up as a dedicated, centralised facility at the District Industries Centre, State Industrial Park, Toluvi, Dimapur. The Yarn Bank will provide high-quality natural yarn, including cotton, eri silk, muga silk, bamboo fibre and other natural fibre blends, at mill-gate prices. The state govt will also extend a 15% subsidy to make raw materials more affordable for eligible weavers.Rio said the scheme is expected to benefit 5,000 to 10,000 weavers annually. Eligible weavers with a Yarn Pass Book will be able to procure yarn directly from the Yarn Bank through a transparent and efficient distribution system.
