Shillong

Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh on Saturday inaugurated the Integrated Textile & Tourism Centre (ITTC) at Nongpoh in Ri Bhoi district, marking a new push to strengthen Meghalaya’s textile ecosystem and boost cultural tourism.

Singh, who is on an official visit to the state, was joined by Union Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margherita and Meghalaya’s Textiles Minister Metbah Lyngdoh. During the visit, the Union Minister met local weavers, artisans, officials, and community representatives.

The ITTC—developed by the Department of Textiles, Government of Meghalaya—is envisioned as a multifunctional cultural and economic hub. It seeks to showcase Meghalaya’s traditional textile practices, including its globally recognised Eri (Ahimsa) silk, while offering artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs a dedicated space for skill development, production support, and market linkages.

According to the Central Silk Board, the centre will highlight the entire “farm-to-fabric” process and is expected to strengthen the state’s sustainable silk value chain, positioning Meghalaya as a leader in ethical and environmentally conscious textile production.

Calling the initiative a milestone, Meghalaya Textiles Minister Metbah Lyngdoh told ANI that the ITTC is unique because it brings together both textile promotion and tourism development under one roof.

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Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margherita said the launch marks an important moment for the Northeast’s textile sector. He added that the centre will not only support handloom weavers and local artisans but will also serve as a modern showcase of the region’s textile heritage while enhancing tourism potential.