Nongpoh, March 6 : Looms & Links 2026, an exclusive Exhibition-cum Buyers & Sellers Meet under the Integrated Textile Tourism Complex initiative, was inaugurated on Friday at Nongpoh. The two-day programme, organised by the District Handloom Office, Ri Bhoi District, Government of Meghalaya, is being held from March 6–7, 2026 and brings together weavers, artisans, buyers, designers and industry stakeholders to showcase the region’s vibrant handloom traditions while strengthening market linkages for local textile producers.
The inaugural session was attended by Principal Secretary, Department of Textiles, Government of Meghalaya, F. R. Kharkongor, IAS, as the Chief Guest, while Deputy Commissioner of Ri Bhoi District, Abhilash Baranwal, IAS, attended as the Guest of Honour. Other distinguished guests included Monica Lywait, Dr. Fabian W. Marbaniang, Principal of K. L. Bajoria College, Shillong, and Daniel Syiem, Proprietor of DSEFH.
Through “Looms — The Exhibition” and “Links — The Trade Meet,” the event highlights Ri Bhoi’s living textile heritage while creating opportunities for direct buyer–seller interactions, trade partnerships and sustainable livelihood opportunities for the weaving community. The programme also focuses on expanding outreach through collaborations with fashion designers and fashion educational institutions, strengthening the connection between traditional textiles and contemporary markets.
In his address, F. R. Kharkongor, IAS, highlighted the recent Geographical Indication (GI) recognition of Ryndia, stressing the importance of leveraging its cultural heritage while expanding its future potential, describing the journey as moving “from Heritage to Horizon.” He emphasised the need to establish stronger linkages between Meghalaya’s textile traditions and trade and encouraged stakeholders to move beyond producing “samples” to becoming “consignment ready.” He also called for collective efforts to position Ryndia as both a high-value and high-volume textile in wider markets.
Following the inaugural ceremony, the Buyer–Seller Exhibition was formally opened by the dignitaries, with participation from a wide cross-section of weavers from Ri Bhoi and other districts of Meghalaya, reflecting growing momentum to connect local weaving communities with emerging market opportunities.
The two-day event will continue with exhibitions, interactions and networking opportunities aimed at strengthening the ecosystem of Meghalaya’s handloom sector while promoting sustainable livelihoods for weaving communities across the State.
