Reena Mutum

Reena Mutum

State President, Manipur Handloom Council

Reena Mutum

State President, Manipur Handloom Council


Ms. Reena Mutum is the Founding-Coordinator of the award-winning organization, Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network based in Manipur in Northeast India. In 2011, the Network was given the “CNN IBN Indian of the Year Award” in the Special Category for the excellent work done to help women survivors of conflict in Manipur and other parts of Northeast India. The network has spread to 300 villages all across the eight states of Northeast India. Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network counsels women living in trauma and helps them find livelihood opportunities in order to help them return to a normal family life. Ms. Mutum and her team have been working relentlessly with several women weavers who are survivors of violence that belongs to the most vulnerable and marginalized section of Manipur. Ms. Mutum also assists in the running of an online portal that sells handloom items made by women in Manipur called, “Mothers Bazaar”. She also helped in making two documentary films on women called 'Story of the Manipur Women Gun Survivors' and 'We Shall Find our Peace'. The Network's direct intervention involves a gender sensitive approach to the issues that faces society, supports women economically and brings them forward to play a crucial role in development in the region. The Network undertakes small-scale livelihood projects and skills training, connecting women with labor opportunities. Another important work that Reena has also coordinated is ensuring women in socio-political and economic decision making positions. Reena has a Post Graduate in English Literature from University of Mumbai and is an alumni of International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP) of the USA & a mother to two wonderful teenage daughters.