Published Paper Details:

Women have been taking the whole charge in weaving, as men are taboo to weave in Naga society. The weaving monopoly by Naga women has been holding and carrying the Naga identity through weaving. The present study focuses on the role women involved in Chizami Weaves in the socio-economic empowerment of rural women in Phek district of Nagaland. Chizami Weaves was initiated by North East Network in 2008 and has emerged as an important platform for preserving traditional textile practices while generating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women weavers. The study examines the socio-economic condition of women engaged in the project, the benefits derived from their participation, and the challenges faced by them in their working environment. Chizami Weaves as an organization has played a significant role in enhancing women's economic independence, improving their standard of living and increasing their participation in social and economic activities. The project has also contributed towards the preservation of traditional weaving skills and the promotion of rural employment. However, issues such as financial limitations, marketing difficulties and infrastructural constrained continue to effect the women weavers. This study tries to analyze and understand how Chizami Weaves has emerged as an important instrument for women's empowerment, sustainable livelihood, and rural development in Nagaland.