Shillong, Oct 5: When actor Ashutosh Rana wore a striking Garo jacket woven from Eri silk and pineapple leaf fibre, it wasn’t just a fashion statement.
It was the essence of the event’s theme: “Weaving India Together — Natural Fibres, Innovation and Livelihoods from the North East and Beyond.”
The grand poster unveiling and media meet for the upcoming National Conclave celebrated exactly that — how India’s traditional fibres and indigenous knowledge can inspire a more sustainable, inclusive future.
Organised by the Ministry of Textiles in collaboration with ICAR, the Government of Meghalaya, the Central Agricultural University, Imphal, and the College of Community Science, Tura, the event being held in New Delhi brought together policymakers, artisans, academics, and the media to spotlight India’s growing natural fibre movement. The event will be held from October 6-8.
Rana, who was honoured with a Borang — a handwoven Garo cloth — praised the initiative for “bringing the soul of India’s villages to the national stage.” His attire, blending the warmth of Eri silk with the resilience of pineapple fibre, embodied the message of the conclave: sustainability through tradition, strength through simplicity.
All dignitaries were presented with handcrafted A’chik Pandra stoles, woven by artisans from Meghalaya, symbolising the Northeast’s deep-rooted textile heritage and its role in shaping India’s sustainable future.
A vibrant exhibition complemented the event, showcasing fibre-based innovations, natural dyes, and eco-friendly products from across the Northeast.
The College of Community Science, Tura displayed student-led creations from sustainable clothing and home décor to organic lifestyle products — reflecting how grassroots innovation can drive women’s entrepreneurship and community transformation.
Focusing on fibres such as Eri, Muga, Ramie, Banana, and Nettle, the upcoming National Conclave (Oct 6–8) aims to reframe India’s narrative in global textile sustainability. With the eco-conscious market expanding worldwide, the initiative aligns closely with national missions like Atma Nirbhar Bharat, Vocal for Local, and PM Mitra Parks.
The event also previewed the National Ideathon, which drew 47 entries from students across India, with 10 innovative concepts shortlisted for presentation during the conclave. With over 275 participants and more than 100 artisans and entrepreneurs expected to take part, the conclave promises to be a vibrant exchange of ideas and traditions.
Dignitaries, including Dr Mridula Takur Pradhan, Dr Rajbir Singh (ICAR), Atul Jain (DRI), and Dr Anupam Mishra, Vice-Chancellor of CAU, were present on the occasion.
EOM
