Centre Reaffirms Commitment to Arunachal Pradesh as Pabitra Margherita Launches Key Handloom Project in Ziro
Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles Pabitra Margherita visited Arunachal Pradesh's Lower Subansiri district, launched the Ziro Handloom Marketing Complex, distributed toolkits to artisans, reviewed Central Government initiatives and reaffirmed support for indigenous crafts, livelihoods and cultural heritage preservation.
Addressing weavers, handicraft artisans and district officials during his visit to Lower Subansiri district, Margherita said Arunachal Pradesh occupies a unique position in the country's cultural identity. He reiterated the Central Government's commitment to supporting traditional crafts, strengthening local livelihoods and promoting indigenous artistic heritage.
The minister praised Chief Minister Pema Khandu for his leadership in advancing development while ensuring the protection and promotion of the state's rich tribal traditions, according to an official statement issued on Tuesday.
As part of his visit, Margherita laid the foundation stone for the Ziro Handloom Marketing Complex, a significant project aimed at providing local weavers with a dedicated platform to display and market their products to a wider audience. He stated that the facility would strengthen the handloom sector and generate greater market opportunities for artisans across the region.
In another major initiative, the minister distributed specialised toolkits to local artisans under the Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme. The distribution is intended to enhance productivity while supporting the preservation of traditional tribal crafts and skills passed down through generations.
Margherita received a traditional welcome from district administration officials and community leaders upon his arrival in Ziro. During the visit, he also paid respects at the Siddheshwarnath Temple in Kardo and participated in a breakfast meeting hosted by local legislator Hage Appa, where developmental issues and future opportunities for the Ziro Valley were discussed.
Before departing for Palin in Kra Daadi district, the minister reviewed the implementation of ongoing Central Government initiatives in the textiles and development sectors with district officials. He emphasised the importance of ensuring the effective delivery of government schemes so that their benefits reach people across the region.
The visit underscored the Centre's continued focus on strengthening infrastructure, promoting traditional industries and preserving the cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh, while advancing economic opportunities for local communities through targeted development initiatives.

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