Agartala, August 08, 2025: The Tripura Government is steadfast in its commitment to empower women by promoting handloom, handicrafts, and silk industries across the state, said Handloom, Handicrafts and Silk Industries Minister Bikash Debbarma on Thursday. He was speaking at the inauguration of the 5-day Handloom Expo 2025 held at Urban Haat in Purbasha, marking the 11th National Handloom Day.

“Our government’s primary objective is to economically empower women. Through skill development and increased production of handloom, handicrafts, and silk products, we aim to make women self-reliant,” said Minister Debbarma. He encouraged local artisans to scale up production and assured them of the government’s full support. “You focus on production, and we will ensure the marketing and sale of your products,” he added.

Acting Sabhadipati of the Paschim Tripura Zilla Parishad Biswajit Shil attended the event as guest of honour. Highlighting the industry’s potential, he stated, “The growth of the handloom sector is vital not just for the economy but also for preserving our traditional crafts. Everyone must contribute to this development.”

The event commenced with a welcome address by Ajit Sur Das, Director of the Handloom, Handicrafts and Silk Industry Department. Deputy Director of Tantuba Service Center, Arnab Chowdhury delivered the vote of thanks.

A key highlight of the occasion was the felicitation of top artisans. Awards were presented to three best performers in each category handloom, handicrafts and silk textiles. The first prize carried Rs 10,000, the second Rs 7,000 and the third Rs 5,000 distributed by Minister Debbarma and other dignitaries.

The expo will continue till August 11 showcasing the vibrant talent of Tripura’s artisans.