Kohima: The State Level Awards for Handicraft and Tribal Textiles for the years 2024–25 and 2025–2, were presented at a programme held at the Directorate of Industries and Commerce in Kohima on Thursday.
Speaking on the occasion, Director of Industries and Commerce P. Tokugha Sema congratulated the awardees and said the awards were instituted to create a meaningful impact on livelihoods, society and the state.
As per DIPR Nagaland, the director described the awards as significant achievements rooted in purpose and dedication, and highlighted the rigorous selection process, acknowledging the challenges faced by the judges.
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 artisans to sustain their traditional trades by honing their talents so that they gain wider recognition. He urged them not to commercialise their products solely for profit, but to play a vital role in inspiring and mentoring other artisans in the state. He further announced that awardees would be eligible for a monthly pension of Rs 8,000 upon attaining the age of 60.
Felicitating the 15 awardees, Executive Engineer and Programme Officer (Textiles) Er. Aenla Walling said the department’s role went beyond distributing certificates, emphasising that the awards honour the quiet and relentless dedication of artisans who keep traditional crafts such as nettle weaving, wood carving, crochet, metalwork, bamboo weaving and pottery alive. She noted that these crafts carry the patience, skills and stories of the people and the land.
Walling also expressed concern over copied designs of indigenous handicrafts flooding markets, and called for collective efforts to protect unique designs and promote fair platforms that appropriately value artisans’ work.
In her welcome address, Additional Director of Industries and Commerce T. Lemnon Wangsha said the State Level Awards celebrate Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage and reflect the creativity, skill and dedication of Naga artisans and weavers. She added that handicrafts and tribal textiles are not only symbols of identity but also vital sources of livelihood, and that the awards recognise artisans who have preserved traditional knowledge while showcasing creativity and craftsmanship.
A short speech on behalf of the awardees was delivered by Maopha, while the vote of thanks was proposed by the Assistant Director of Industries and Commerce. The programme was chaired by Joint Director of Industries and Commerce Hojeto K Suqhe.
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The awardees for the State Level Awards 2024–25 were Kudulhu (Handicraft – Pottery and Clay), B. Temjen Pongen (Scrap Metal and Bone Carving), Mannyei Konyak (Wood and Stone Carving, Carpentry and Painting), Asenla Imsong (Crochet), K. Tokpon (Crochet) and Tiarenla Jamir (Crochet).
The awardees for the State Level Awards 2025–26 were Maopha (Brass), Imsuyanger (Woodwork), Bumang Hoba (Cane and Bamboo), Kelhoutshevi Kehie (Cane and Bamboo) and Vikhoto Meyase (Cane and Bamboo). The special category awards were conferred on K Shahlem (Wood Carving) and Imnasunep (Cane and Bamboo).
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