Passage

In our country, handlooms are equated with a culture that ensures a continuity of tradition. This idea has become part of the public policy-framing and provides a legitimate basis for the State to support the sector. But the notion of tradition as a single, linear entity is being strongly contested today. The narratives dominant in defining culture/tradition in a particular way are seen to have emerged as the identities and histories of large sections. The discounted and, at times, forcibly stifled identities are fighting for their rightful place in history. Against this backdrop, when we promote handloom as a traditional industry, it is not surprising that large sections of our population choose to ignore it.

QUESTION

CSAT

Easy

Comprehension

Prelims 2025

Which one of the following statements best reflects the most logical and rational message conveyed by the author of the passage?

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Option A is correct: The passage critiques the idea that tradition is a “single, linear entity” and argues that such a narrow narrative has limited the appeal of handlooms—“when we promote handloom as a traditional industry, it is not surprising that large sections of our population choose to ignore it.”
This suggests the need to move beyond the restricted cultural framing of handlooms and embrace a more inclusive, diverse interpretation that resonates with modern and marginalized identities alike. Hence, freeing the handloom industry from the limited, heritage-based narrative is the key message.

Option B is incorrect: While the passage acknowledges State support, it primarily critiques the narrow cultural reasoning behind it. The focus is not on the continuation of state assistance but on questioning the limited way tradition is defined.

Option C is incorrect: Modernization or economic reorganization of household handloom units is not discussed in the passage. The focus remains on cultural narratives, not industrial restructuring.

Option D is incorrect: The author does not suggest replacing handloom craftsmanship with machine-made or designer products. The issue lies in how tradition is framed, not in the mode of production.

Therefore, the most logical and rational message conveyed is that the handloom industry must be liberated from a narrow, singular cultural framing — hence, option A.