Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 843/05

DESIGN AND SKILL UPGRADATION TRAINING CONCLUDED

A two month Design and Skill Upgradation Training Programme for weavers of Ri Bhoi District concluded on December 17, 2005, wherein the Meghalaya Minister for Sericulture and Weaving, etc, Mr. Sayeeduallah Nongrum was the Chief Guest and Chairman and Managing Director, NEDFi, Mr. K. N. Hazarika was the Guest of Honour at the valedictory function. Sponsored by the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd. (NEDFi) with the participation of the Department of Sericulture and Weaving, Government of Meghalaya, the programme was attended by 20 trainees from different parts of the District

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Nongrum lauded the initiative taken by the NEDFi to uplift the weavers of the region, adding that this programme is aimed at upgrading the weavers in their skills and creativity to match the market demand. He called upon the trainees to produce new designed clothes that will go well in the market and urged upon them to translate whatever they learn from the training into something concrete for their well-being. Mr. Nongrum urged upon the weavers to approach the Department and the NEDFi for any support needed adding that the Department and the Government is committed to strengthen the handloom sector for the welfare of the weavers of the District.

Mr. Hazarika, in his brief speech, informed the gathering that the NEDFi is committed to work for the upliftment of the North East in different spheres of activities for the overall development of its people down to the grassroot level. Stating that the NEDFi is capable in creating more market facilities for handloom products through Export Promotion Council, Trade Fairs, etc., he expressed hoped that with the support from the Government, the handloom sector would come at par with other regions of the country through upgradation of skill, design and capacity building

The programme ended with the distribution of certificates and stipends to the trainees by the Chief Guest

Press Release No. 844/05

CLARIFICATION

The Deputy Commissioner (Supply), East Khasi Hills District has clarified that Rice under Annapurna Scheme has been released for distribution ‘Free of Cost’ through selected Fair Price Shops for ‘Entitled Card Holders’ only and not as published in one of the local dailies