Handloom — weaving India’s heritage into global growth, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• India observed the 12th National Handloom Day on August 7th, recognizing handloom as a strategic sector for future growth.
• The handloom sector is India’s largest cottage industry, supporting over 35 lakh weavers and allied workers, with 72% being women.
• The government aims to integrate handloom into the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, emphasizing sustainability, authenticity, and global competitiveness.
• Initiatives like the Raw Material Supply Scheme and Weavers’ Service Centres provide comprehensive support to artisans.
• The forthcoming National Handloom and Handicraft Programme will strengthen 1,800 clusters across more than 500 districts.

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Detailed Insights:

• Handloom embodies a blend of heritage and innovation, driving women-led development and rural entrepreneurship.
• India has a rich handloom legacy, dating from the Indus Valley Civilisation to its global textile dominance in the 18th century.
• Government efforts include establishing 797 handloom clusters and providing over 1.24 lakh improved looms.
• Skill upgradation programs have benefited nearly 97,000 artisans, enhancing their craftsmanship.
• Producer Companies, GI Tagged products, Handloom Mark, and India Handmade certifications boost product value and authenticity.
• Urban Haats and Design Resource Centres facilitate market access and foster design innovation.
• Weavers’ Service Centres offer training, upskilling, design development, and raw material assistance.
• Indian Institutes of Handloom Technology are being strengthened to expand advanced training and develop niche products.
• Innovations like Ambar Charkha, Maina Loom, and Chitranjan Handloom have improved weaving efficiency and productivity.
• The Centre of Excellence for Handloom Technology, in collaboration with IITs, develops ergonomic and accessible looms.
• Handloom 4.0 utilizes digital tools and Artificial Intelligence for monitoring productivity, quality, and maintenance.
• Platforms such as VisioNXT help forecast demand, identify design trends, and connect weavers directly with global markets.
• Product diversification into premium silk, natural, and sustainable fibers aims to create high-value products and new markets.
• The long-term vision is to enable weavers to achieve a dignified income, targeting ₹50,000 per month.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Viksit Bharat 2047: A national vision for India to become a developed nation by its 100th year of independence.
• GI Tag (Geographical Indication Tag): A sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin.
• Producer Companies: A legal entity allowing primary producers, such as artisans, to form a company for better market access and value addition.
• Handloom Mark / India Handmade: Certification labels ensuring the authenticity and quality of handwoven products, promoting consumer trust.