India: Church Organizes Basic Handloom Training for IDPs in Riot-Hit Manipur

The Diocesan Social Service Society (DSSS), Imphal, with support from Manos Unidas, launched a basic handloom (weaving) training program on August 2, 2025, at St. Joseph’s School Hall in Singngat. The initiative aims to strengthen livelihood security for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and disadvantaged rural communities affected by violence in Manipur, with a particular focus on empowering women.

The program opened with a prayer led by Nu Nianta, an IDP now residing in a newly constructed fabricated home in S. Belpuan, one of the many shelters built by the Catholic Church for displaced families.

In his keynote address, Fr. Mung, parish priest of St. Thomas Parish, emphasized the long-standing mission of DSSS to uplift vulnerable communities. “All our efforts are rooted not in charity, but in restoring dignity and ensuring sustainable livelihoods for displaced and marginalized families,” he said. He urged participants to make the most of the opportunity offered through this training.

Despite the ongoing conflict and widespread displacement, DSSS continues to implement livelihood-oriented training programs to help restore hope and economic independence. A total of 67 participants, mostly IDPs from Churachandpur District, attended the training, many of them first-time weavers. Skilled local artisans guided the trainees through the basics of weaving.

To support their start, 67 weaving kits and yarn materials were distributed to all participants, provided by DSSS with funding from Manos Unidas. The 30-day training program will be conducted in a home-based format, with regular monitoring by Mr. Thomas Paupi, DSSS Field Manager for the Singngat area.

Speaking during the session, Fr. Mung reiterated that this initiative is part of a broader Church response to the humanitarian crisis in Manipur. “This is not just aid,” he stressed, “but a step toward rebuilding lives, restoring self-reliance, and renewing community resilience.”

Mr. Paupi shared that DSSS's continued support will be based on the participants’ level of commitment and performance. “The success of this batch could open doors for similar opportunities in neighboring villages,” he noted.

He also expressed gratitude to Catholic agencies and organizations across India for their financial and moral support, particularly Manos Unidas for enabling the training. The sessions were facilitated by Ms. Mary Grace.

This foundational workshop marks a significant step in rebuilding lives, fostering resilience, and empowering displaced women through the revival of traditional handloom skills, giving hope for a more secure and self-sustaining future