Meghalaya’s Ryndia silk and Khasi handloom have been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a

milestone in preserving indigenous craftsmanship and cultural identity. The recognition honours the efforts of the Ryndia

Meghalaya Association and the weaver community’s efforts in safeguarding Meghalaya’s rich textile heritage.

Union Minister of State for Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita, showcased Ryndia at Bharat Tex 2025 by walking the ramp as the showstopper at the ‘Earthloom – Threads of Heritage’ fashion show. The Department of Textiles, Meghalaya, was honoured with a Special Award under the CITI Textiles Sustainability Awards at the Bharat Tex 2025 Global Textiles Expo in New Delhi. The award recognises the department’s significant efforts in reviving indigenous textile heritage, promoting sustainability, and fostering innovation in the sector. Shri Frederick Roy Kharkongor, Principal Secretary of the Department of Textiles, Meghalaya, received the award from Shri Pabitra Margherita in the presence of senior officials and dignitaries. Meghalaya’s initiatives—including the recognition of Umden-Diwon as the state’s first Eri Silk Village, the establishment of the Design Innovation Research Centre (DIRC), and global showcases of Ryndia at prestigious events—continue to strengthen the state’s position in sustainable textile development.

Focusing on ethical, eco-friendly, and women-driven textile practices, Meghalaya is dedicated to preserving its rich

weaving traditions while creating economic opportunities for its artisans.

Eri Weave, a Meghalaya-based handloom brand, made an inspiring appearance on Shark Tank India, where they received

national recognition for their work in promoting Ryndia. Their pitch not only showcased the commercial potential of eri

silk but also highlighted its roots in tradition, sustainability, and women-led entrepreneurship. Their journey represents a

powerful mission to preserve a fading art form while empowering a new generation of weavers. Their success stands as a

proud moment for the state and for India’s indigenous textile heritage.

Meghalaya’s Eri Silk Shines on Mann Ki Baat. Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi spotlighted Meghalaya’s Ryndia silk in

his Mann Ki Baat address, recognising it as a unique product preserved by the Khasi community and enriched by their

traditional skills. Applauding the state’s sustainable, non-violent textiles, he remarked, “Meghalaya’s Eri Silk is a perfect

product for the global market.” He also commended the efforts of women-led Self Help Groups, stating, “Women in

Meghalaya are now scaling up this heritage… I congratulate the people of Meghalaya.”

This national recognition is a proud moment for the state and reaffirms its contribution to the Vocal for Local movement

and India’s indigenous textile revival.