Imphal, February 17: A two month long training programme on Handloom Design and Scheme Upgradation organised by Manipur Chanura Leishem Marup under the sponsorship of North East Development Financial Cooperation Limited (NEDFi) was inaugurated today at the Multipurpose Community hall of Wabgai by the Chairman and Managing Director of NEDFi, KN Hazarika.

The inaugural function was attended by pradan of Wabgai Gram Panchayat, Kakchingtabam Tomba and president of Macha Leima, Wangkheimayum Amusana among others as presidium members.

Speaking on the occasion, Hazarika informed that as a part of NEDFi's efforts to faciliate marketing of products produced by villagers of remote places, the entrepreneurs are encouraged to participate in national and international trade fairs.

However, there is serious problem of inability to meet demands.

To remove this problem, NEDFi has been extending aid to entrepreneurs working in groups, stated the chairman.

He mentioned that there is great demand for the handloom products of the State from five star hotels for which NEDFI is launching a website to showcase the products and provide relevant information.

Project Director, LC Bethebi of Macha Leima's Micro-finance project sponsored by NEDFi stated that about 50 percent of the amount sanctioned by NEDFi has been provided to Wabgai area which is about Rs 15,73,000 directly benefiting 182 women workers of 16 self help groups.

What is more encouraging is the cent percent repayment of loan amounts in time, added Bethebi.

Nevertheless, cold storage, food processing and packaging facilities which are of great necessity still remain unfulfilled.

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