Shillong: Looms & Links 2026, an exclusive exhibition-cum-buyers and sellers meet under the Integrated Textile Tourism Complex initiative at Nongpoh, was inaugurated on Friday.
Organised by the District Handloom Office, Ri Bhoi district, Government of Meghalaya, the two-day programme (March 6–7, 2026) brings together weavers, artisans, buyers, designers and industry stakeholders to showcase the region’s vibrant handloom traditions while strengthening market linkages for local textile producers.
The inaugural session was graced by F. R. Kharkongor, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Textiles, Government of Meghalaya, as the chief guest, with Abhilash Baranwal, IAS, Deputy Commissioner (DC), Ri Bhoi district, as the guest of honour. Other distinguished guests present included Monica Lywait, Dr Fabian W. Marbaniang, Principal of K.L. Bajoria College, Shillong, and Daniel Syiem, Proprietor of DSEFH.
Through “Looms — The Exhibition” and “Links — The Trade Meet,” the event highlights Ri Bhoi’s living textile heritage while creating opportunities for direct buyer–seller interactions, trade partnerships and sustainable livelihood opportunities for the weaving community.
The programme also focuses on expanding outreach through collaborations with fashion designers and fashion educational institutions, strengthening the connection between traditional textiles and contemporary markets.
In his address, F. R. Kharkongor, IAS, highlighted the recent Geographical Indication (GI) recognition of Ryndia, emphasising the importance of leveraging its cultural heritage while expanding its future potential — describing the journey as moving “from Heritage to Horizon”.
He underscored the need to establish stronger linkages between Meghalaya’s textile traditions and trade, encouraging stakeholders to move beyond producing “samples” and work towards becoming “consignment-ready”. He further called for collective efforts to position Ryndia as both a high-value and high-volume textile in wider markets.
The buyer–seller exhibition was subsequently inaugurated by the dignitaries, witnessing participation from a wide cross-section of weavers from Ri Bhoi as well as other districts of Meghalaya, reflecting the growing momentum to connect local weaving communities with emerging market opportunities.
The two-day event continues with exhibitions, interactions and networking opportunities aimed at strengthening the ecosystem of Meghalaya’s handloom sector while promoting sustainable livelihoods for its weaving communities.