Overcoming Disability: Manipuri Woman Wins National Handicrafts Award for Exquisite Hand Embroidery

Dec 11, 2025 03:46 am CST

Yengkhom (O) Indira Devi, an artisan with 80% locomotor disability from Manipur, was honored with the National Handicrafts Award for her exceptional hand embroidery work. Despite physical challenges and a severe accident in 2014, she mastered intricate embroidery techniques, creating beautiful pieces including a celebrated depiction of traditional Manipuri polo. Her inspiring journey highlights the empowering potential of India's handicraft sector, which provides livelihoods to over 3.2 million people nationwide.