Meghalaya’s Textiles Department wins special Award for sustainability

The Department of Textiles, Meghalaya, received a Special Award at the Textiles Sustainability Awards 2024-25, presented by the Confederation of Indian Textile Industries (CITI). The award was announced during Bharat Tex 2025 in New Delhi, recognizing Meghalaya’s efforts in reviving indigenous textile heritage and promoting sustainability.

CITI praised the department’s role in preserving traditional weaving and ensuring eco-friendly textile production. As part of this recognition, Meghalaya received the CITI Textiles Heritage Reviver Award, honoring its work in sustainable weaving, heritage preservation, and community empowerment. Principal Secretary Frederick Roy Kharkongor accepted the award from Union Minister Pabitra Margherita.

Since 2019, Meghalaya has undertaken several initiatives, including the recognition of Umden-Diwon as the state’s first Eri Silk village, the establishment of the Design Innovation Research Centre (DIRC), and efforts to secure a GI tag for Ryndia fabric. The state has also promoted its textile heritage globally through exhibitions and capacity-building programs for weavers.

The recognition at Bharat Tex 2025 highlights Meghalaya’s commitment to integrating traditional craftsmanship with sustainable practices. The state continues to lead in promoting eco-friendly textiles while creating economic opportunities for its artisans.