National Handloom Day Highlights Sustainability And Economic Growth
The 10th National Handloom Day was celebrated with Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar as the chief guest. Union Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh and Minister of State Shri Pabitra Margherita also attended the event.
Vice President Dhankhar highlighted the role of handloom products in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Be Vocal for Local” campaign, stressing their importance amid climate change concerns. He underscored that economic nationalism is crucial for India’s growth and independence.
Union Minister Singh emphasized India’s leadership in sustainable handloom practices, noting the industry’s zero-carbon and zero-water footprint. He also praised PM Modi’s initiatives, including the Cluster Development Programme (CDP), aimed at integrating technology, marketing, design, and fashion into the handloom sector.
Singh reminded attendees that National Handloom Day, celebrated since August 7, 2015, commemorates the Swadeshi Movement of 1905. He highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance the textile value chain and provide fair remuneration to weavers. With 70% of handloom weavers being women, Singh urged the transmission of traditional skills to the next generation and encouraged the use of the Indian Institute of Handloom Technology (IIHT) for skill enhancement.
The Union Minister called for increased adoption of handloom products and urged officials to work towards expanding the handloom market globally, aiming to boost employment and income opportunities for weavers and their families.
