STATE LEVEL AWARD FOR HANDICRAFT AND TRIBAL TEXTILE HELD AT KOHIMA

KOHIMA, Jan 29: Outstanding artisans from across Nagaland were honoured with the State Level Award for Handicraft and Tribal Textile for the years 2024–2025 and 2025–2026 at a function held on Wednesday at the Directorate of Industries & Commerce, Kohima.

Speaking on the occasion, Director, Industries & Commerce, P. Tokugha Sema, congratulated the awardees and said that such programmes are meant to make a meaningful impact on livelihoods, society and the state. He described the awards as achievements earned with purpose and meaning and highlighted the rigorous selection process and the challenges faced by the judges. He expressed gratitude to the artisans for their dedication and contribution to preserving traditional crafts.

Sema also informed that the Ministry of Textiles, under the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), has recently announced the nomination of two awardees under a Special Category. He encouraged the artisans to continue their traditional trades using their talents so that they receive wider recognition. He urged them not to commercialise their work only for profit, but to inspire and support other artisans in the state. He further announced that awardees would receive a monthly pension of Rs 8,000 after attaining the age of 60.

Felicitating the 15 awardees, Executive Engineer and Programme Officer (Textile), Er. Aenla Walling, said that the department is not merely distributing certificates, but honouring the quiet and relentless dedication of artisans who keep Nagaland’s heritage alive. She mentioned crafts such as nettle weaving, wood carving, crochet, metal works, bamboo weaving and pottery, stating that each carries the patience, skills and stories of the people and the land. She also expressed concern over copied designs flooding the markets and called upon all to protect original Naga designs and promote fair platforms that value artisans’ work.

In her welcome address, Additional Director, Industries & Commerce, T. Lemnon Wangsha, said that the State Level Award programme celebrates Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage and reflects the creativity, skill and dedication of Naga artisans and weavers. She noted that handicrafts and tribal textiles are not only symbols of identity but also vital sources of livelihood, and that the department recognises those who preserve traditional knowledge through this award.

A short speech on behalf of the awardees was delivered by Maopha, while the vote of thanks was proposed by the Assistant Director, Industries & Commerce. The programme was chaired by Joint Director, Industries & Commerce, Hojeto K. Suqhe.

Awardees

State Level Award 2024–2025
Kudulhu – Handicraft (Pottery & Clay)
B. Temjen Pongen – Handicraft (Scrap-Metal & Bone Carving)
Mannyei Konyak – Handicraft (Wood & Stone Carving, Carpenter, Painter)
Asenla Imsong – Handicraft (Crochet)
K. Tokpon – Handicraft (Crochet)
Tiarenla Jamir – Handicraft (Crochet)

State Level Award 2025–2026
Maopha – Handicraft (Brass)
Imsuyanger – Handicraft (Woodwork)
Bumang Hoba – Handicraft (Cane & Bamboo)
Kelhoutshevi Kehie – Handicraft (Cane & Bamboo)
Vikhoto Meyase – Handicraft (Cane & Bamboo)

Special Category
K. Shahlem – Handicraft (Wood Carving)
Imnasunep – Handicraft (Cane & Bamboo)

(Maongtemjen, IA)