Indian Army Partners with Women of Manipur for a Resilient Future

Imphal, Jan 29 (NationPress) The rich cultural legacy of Manipur is deeply connected to its renowned handwoven textiles, and the Indian Army, in partnership with the Aseem Foundation, is leveraging this time-honored tradition to foster societal cohesion and promote unity in the conflict-affected state.

For centuries, artisans in Manipur have skillfully produced stunning fabrics, merging traditional methods with contemporary styles.

As per the recent National Handloom Census, Manipur boasts over 200,000 handloom weavers, predominantly women.

The weaving sector in Manipur is particularly celebrated for its beautiful Phanek, Moirangphi, and Wangkhei fabrics, which not only highlight the craftsmanship of the region but also reflect its rich history, mythology, and everyday culture.

This vital industry plays a crucial role in providing livelihoods for thousands of artisans and significantly boosts the local economy.

Manipuri textiles, with their unique designs, vibrant colors, and exceptional quality, have gained international acclaim.

This ancient craft, handed down through generations, continues to flourish, empowering women and marginalized groups while safeguarding the cultural heritage of the state.

For over 2,000 years, the weaving tradition of Manipur has been shaped by its strategic position along the historic Silk Route.

From the splendid royal attire of the Meitei Kingdom to the modest creations of rural communities, the weaving industry reflects the resilience, creativity, and spirit of its people.

Centuries ago, the industry began its journey in the Moirang Kingdom of Manipur. The term Moirang, derived from the Meitei language, translates to 'special pattern' used in Manipuri clothing.

This pattern is prevalent in sarees, veils, shawls, etc., often represented as crosses and triangles.

However, the onset of insurgency and industrialization in the 1990s resulted in a crisis for the weaving sector.

Local shops were replaced by commercial outlets selling machine-made synthetic fabrics, which became more popular among the populace.

Nearly 25 years later, when Manipur was on the brink of emerging as a beacon of hope in the troubled northeast, ethnic tensions between the Meiteis and Kukis further complicated matters, with women and children bearing the brunt of the conflict.

In the midst of unrest, the troops had a chance to immerse themselves in the rich Manipuri culture and its traditional handwoven textiles.

During exchanges with the local populace, the security forces were often honored with traditional handwoven shawls.

This inspired the idea of revitalizing this fading craft and empowering local women to reclaim their role as economic pillars.

The Indian Army took the initiative to assist local women by establishing the Tronglaobi Yarn Bank as part of its flagship program, 'Operation Sadbhavana.'

In partnership with the Pune-based Aseem Foundation, which is dedicated to developing remote and conflict-affected areas across India, this collaboration envisioned the Yarn Bank as a skill development project aimed at empowering local women.

The Yarn Bank provided locals with raw materials, machinery, infrastructure, and stipends for all women participating in the initiative.

The Aseem Foundation is known for bridging economic, social, religious, and ideological divides to uplift communities in challenging regions, excelling in entrepreneurship and development.

The foundation offered expert guidance, including a business model for managing the Yarn Bank.

Furthermore, it is facilitating a national marketplace for the weavers to sell their creations, poised to transform and rejuvenate local weaving culture.

Profits generated by the weavers will be reinvested to procure raw materials and establish a self-sustaining future model.

This unique collaboration between the Indian Army and local communities aims to cultivate resilience, enhance community welfare, tackle prevailing challenges, promote peace, and create a safer, more integrated society.

The vibrant designs woven into the fabric not only symbolize resilience but also the threads of unity that connect the community during difficult times.

(Sujit Chakraborty can be reached at sujitchakrabortyne@gmail.com)