Imphal Diocese Launches Handloom Training for Displaced Women

Imphal, Manipur, August 6, 2025 — The Diocesan Social Service Society (DSSS), Imphal, in collaboration with Manos Unidas, launched a basic training programme on handloom weaving for 67 women from internally displaced and disadvantaged rural communities on August 2. The initiative, held at St. Joseph’s School Hall, Singngat, aims to enhance livelihood security and empower women affected by recent violence.

In her welcome address, Sr. Mary SH, Superior of Sacred Heart Convent, Singngat, expressed her joy at seeing a growing number of Catholics finding refuge at St. Joseph’s School. What was once a small group of Catholic faithful has now grown into a sizeable community.

Encouraging the participants, she urged them not to lose heart over what they had left behind. Acknowledging the support received, she said, “God never abandons His children. We are always with God, and the assistance we’ve received—including training and resources—is truly His work.”

Nu Nianta, one of the IDPs who recently moved into a newly constructed fabricated house in S. Belpuan built by the Catholic Society, led the gathering in prayer. 

Delivering the keynote address, Fr. Mung, Parish Priest of St. Thomas Parish, passionately spoke about the mission of DSSS. He highlighted that the society’s various projects are committed to uplifting livelihoods and supporting marginalised communities.

He encouraged the women to take full advantage of the training, noting, “These are not acts of charity but efforts towards sustainable livelihood development for disadvantaged families in rural areas.”

Despite the ongoing unrest and growing sense of despair caused by the unresolved conflict, DSSS has been consistently organising skill-building workshops to support IDPs and local communities. This handloom training brought together 67 participants—primarily IDPs from Churachandpur District—many of whom were first-time weavers. Skilled local weavers and senior women artisans provided hands-on guidance during the sessions.

As part of the training, all participants received a Weaving Kit and weaving materials (Yarn) to enable them to begin their weaving journey immediately. These materials were distributed by DSSS with financial support from Manos Unidas.

Fr. Mung emphasised that this programme is part of a broader initiative to restore dignity and self-reliance to communities affected by the violence in Manipur. “Since the outbreak of violence in Manipur, many Catholics have sought refuge here. They have received considerable financial support—not out of pride, but to ensure a better standard of living as IDPs,” he remarked.

The training, which will continue for 30 days in a home-based format, is being supervised by Mr. Thomas Paupi, Field Manager of DSSS in the Singngat area. Drawing from his previous experience, he shared that future support from DSSS would be based on the commitment and progress shown by participants. Continuous monitoring will determine the possibility of extending assistance.

He also expressed hope that the positive outcomes of this initiative would open doors for similar opportunities in neighbouring areas.

In his vote of thanks, Mr. Paupi conveyed deep gratitude to Catholic organisations across India for their financial and moral support, especially to DSSS. He acknowledged the efforts of Miss Mary Grace, a dedicated local youth leader, who facilitated the sessions and ensured active participation from all attendees.

This foundational workshop marks a critical step toward rebuilding lives and fostering resilience among displaced and marginalised women, empowering them to reclaim their livelihoods through traditional skills.

By Tungthang Zou

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