Shillong, Oct 5: Wearing a Garo jacket woven with Eri silk and pineapple leaf fibre, actor Ashutosh Rana has made a huge pitch for a National Conclave being organised in New Delhi to promote traditional fibres of India.
He highlighted the essence of the event theme “Weaving India Together — Natural Fibres, Innovation and Livelihoods from the North East and Beyond” at the grand poster unveiling and media meet for the National Conclave to be held from October 6 – 8.
The event to promote India’s traditional fibres and indigenous knowledge and how they can inspire a more sustainable and inclusive future is being organised by the Ministry of Textiles in collaboration with ICAR, Government of Meghalaya, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, and College of Community Science, Tura.
It has brought together policymakers, artisans, academics, and the media to spotlight India’s growing natural fibre movement.
Honoured with a Borang, a handwoven Garo cloth, Rana praised the initiative for “bringing the soul of India’s villages to the national stage.”
His attire, blending the warmth of Eri silk with the resilience of pineapple fibre, embodied the message of the conclave: sustainability through tradition, strength through simplicity.
All dignitaries were presented with handcrafted A’chik Pandra stoles, woven by artisans from Meghalaya, symbolising the Northeast’s deep-rooted textile heritage and its role in shaping India’s sustainable future.
A vibrant exhibition complemented the event, showcasing fibre-based innovations, natural dyes, and eco-friendly products from across the Northeast.
The College of Community Science, Tura displayed student-led creations from sustainable clothing and home décor to organic lifestyle products — reflecting how grassroots innovation can drive women’s entrepreneurship and community transformation.
Focusing on fibres such as Eri, Muga, Ramie, Banana, and Nettle, the Conclave aims to reframe India’s narrative in global textile sustainability. With the eco-conscious market expanding worldwide, the initiative aligns closely with national missions like Atma Nirbhar Bharat, Vocal for Local, and PM Mitra Parks.
The event also previewed the National Ideathon, which drew 47 entries from students across India, with 10 innovative concepts shortlisted for presentation during the conclave.
With over 275 participants and more than 100 artisans and entrepreneurs expected to take part, the conclave promises to be a vibrant exchange of ideas and traditions.
Dignitaries, including Dr Mridula Takur Pradhan, Dr Rajbir Singh (ICAR), Atul Jain (DRI), and Dr Anupam Mishra, Vice-Chancellor of CAU, were present on the occasion.
