RI-BHOI : As part of the Press Tour to Meghalaya organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India, a media delegation from Karnataka on Tuesday visited Umden Diwon Silk Village in Ri-Bhoi district, renowned for its rich tradition of silk weaving and community-based craftsmanship.
The village is widely known for producing Eri Silk, locally called Ryndai, which has recently been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognising its unique regional identity and traditional significance. Eri silk is an ahimsa (non-violent) silk, harvested without killing the silkworms, making it an environmentally sustainable and ethically produced textile.
During the visit, the journalists interacted closely with local artisans, especially women weavers, and observed the complete silk-making process — from silkworm rearing and spinning to dyeing and handloom weaving. The artisans demonstrated the use of natural dyes derived from local plants and organic materials, giving Eri silk its distinctive natural shades while ensuring chemical-free production.
Members of women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs) shared their experiences of preserving traditional weaving practices, increasing production capacity, and building sustainable livelihoods through collective efforts.
The media delegation also examined the intricate weaving patterns and the natural texture of Eri silk products such as shawls and stoles, appreciating the blend of tradition, skill, and sustainability that defines Umden Diwon’s craftsmanship. Discussions during the visit focused on market access, branding of GI-tagged products, and the crucial role of the media in promoting indigenous crafts at the national level.
The visit gained added significance in light of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reference to Meghalaya’s Eri Silk in the 123rd episode of Mann Ki Baat, where he highlighted India’s diverse arts and crafts. The Prime Minister had praised the women of Meghalaya for leading Eri silk production through SHGs, describing it as a model of sustainability, cultural preservation, and livelihood generation.
Members of the Karnataka media delegation expressed admiration for the dedication and resilience of the artisans and acknowledged the potential of Umden Diwon Silk Village to contribute significantly to the promotion of GI-tagged indigenous products, rural entrepreneurship, and sustainable tourism in the region.