About ZOHANDCO
Mizoram Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd., popularly known as ZOHANDCO, is a Government of Mizoram undertaking. It was established to promote, develop, and market the traditional handloom and handicraft products of Mizoram. The corporation plays a key role in supporting local artisans, weavers, and entrepreneurs by providing market access, technical assistance, and promotional platforms.
Handloom and handicrafts are among the most important traditional industrial activities in Mizoram. The state is known for its skilled artisans who produce a wide range of products that reflect both traditional Mizo designs and contemporary tastes.
History and Establishment
ZOHANDCO was incorporated on 20 December 1988 as a state government company. Its registered office is located at Khatla, Aizawl, Mizoram.
Over the years, the corporation has faced challenges common to many public sector undertakings. In 2015, the Mizoram Cabinet had approved its closure along with a few other loss-making PSUs as part of a broader financial restructuring exercise. However, the corporation was later restored and revived.
After restoration, ZOHANDCO resumed operations with renewed focus. It was formally revived around 2019 and has since been working on strengthening its activities in handloom, handicrafts, and marketing support for local producers.
Objectives of ZOHANDCO
The main objectives of the corporation include:
- Developing, aiding, advising, assisting, financing, protecting, and promoting handloom and handicraft units in Mizoram
- Providing capital, credit, technical, and managerial assistance to artisans and producers
- Supporting manufacturing, management, and marketing of handloom and handicraft products
- Taking up contracts and supply of goods for government departments and other agencies
- Creating employment opportunities, especially in rural areas
- Promoting Mizo traditional crafts in domestic and national markets
Leadership
The corporation is headed by a Chairman appointed by the Government of Mizoram. As of August 2025, Shri J.K. Dawngzuala is serving as the Chairman of ZOHANDCO.
Previous Chairmen after restoration include:
- Shri C. Lalrammawia (2019–2024)
- Shri Lalliansawta (2024–2025)
Recent Initiatives and Achievements
In recent years, ZOHANDCO has focused strongly on market expansion and digital platforms:
- MadebyMizo.com: ZOHANDCO launched an e-commerce platform called MadebyMizo.com under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme of the Ministry of MSME, Government of India. The platform showcases authentic products made by Mizo entrepreneurs and artisans using locally sourced materials. It is a curated marketplace and not an open platform.
- MadebyMizo Kiosks: To strengthen physical market presence, ZOHANDCO has started setting up retail kiosks. In August 2026, Chief Minister Lalduhoma inaugurated the first MadebyMizo Kiosk in Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi. The kiosk covers 750 sq. ft. and was established at a cost of ₹71.41 lakh. Plans are underway to open similar kiosks in Bengaluru and Kolkata.
- These kiosks also function as fulfilment centres for online orders placed on MadebyMizo.com, enabling faster delivery without shipping products from Aizawl every time.
- ZOHANDCO is the State Nodal Agency (SNA) for the RAMP Scheme in Mizoram and handles the Marketing Intervention component under the scheme.
The corporation has also been organising exhibitions, sales emporiums, and participation in trade fairs to promote Mizo handloom and handicraft products.
Products
ZOHANDCO supports and markets a wide range of products, including:
- Traditional Mizo handloom textiles (puans and other woven fabrics)
- Handicraft items
- Locally made food and beverage products
- Health-related items
- Other authentic Mizo-made goods
Current Status
ZOHANDCO continues to function as an active Government of Mizoram undertaking. Under the current leadership, it is focusing on improving market access for local artisans through both online and offline channels. The recent opening of the New Delhi kiosk is seen as an important step in taking Mizo products to a larger national audience.
The corporation is also being cited by the state government as an example of reform and revival among public sector undertakings in Mizoram.
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