A month-long Design Development Workshop (DDW) for banana fibre craft kicked off today at the District Industries Centre, Mokokchung, under the National Handicraft Development Program Scheme.
The workshop, which runs from June 24 to July 23, is being organized by the Handicrafts Service Centre, Kohima, under the Development Commissioner (Handicraft), Ministry of Textiles.
Thirty artisans from Mokokchung have enrolled in the intensive skill development program, which aims to promote the use of banana fibre products. With an abundant supply of banana plants in Nagaland, the initiative seeks to transform this raw material into sustainable and market-ready products.
Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, Ajit Kumar Verma, while delivering his speech highlighted its importance in Nagaland context.
“The availability of raw banana fibre in our land presents a great opportunity. If this training is implemented effectively, we can build a brand for Mokokchung under the ‘One District One Product’ policy of the state government,” he said.
He stressed the need to blend traditional knowledge of handicrafts with modern design sensibilities to create innovative and commercially viable products. “There’s an international demand for eco-friendly alternatives to plastic. Banana fibre crafts can meet that demand while generating revenue,” Verma noted.
He urged the artisans to stay committed and consistent in their creative journey, adding that success lies in a combination of skill, innovation, and effective market linkage. Verma also encouraged the exploration of other underutilized raw materials in the state to diversify and scale up production.
Rajib Chandra Roy, Handicrafts Promotion Officer, Development Commissioner (Handicraft), Kohima, also spoke at the event. He emphasized the global market potential of banana fibre products, calling them both eco-conscious and economically promising. “I am confident that our artisans will turn this natural fibre into a significant source of revenue for the state,” he said.