Every year, National Handloom Day is celebrated on August 7th. This much-anticipated event honors the handloom industry and highlights its impact on India’s socio-economic landscape. It also pays tribute to the Swadeshi Movement that began during India’s fight for independence. Additionally, the day recognises artisans and weavers, giving them well-deserved visibility.
In this article, we discuss the importance of National Handloom Day, its history, and its importance. We also delve into the vital role of the handloom and textile industry in India.
What is National Handloom day?
The Union government of India first declared August 7th as National Handloom Day in 2015. The aim is to raise awareness about the importance of the handloom and textile industries.
The date, August 7th, is significant because it marks the beginning of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905, a pivotal event in India’s struggle for independence. The movement aimed to reduce the country’s reliance on foreign imports and boost domestic production.
The Swadeshi Movement had a massive impact on the textile and handloom industries. It involved boycotting foreign goods, including sugar, salt, luxury items, and cloth, leading to a surge in demand for Indian products, especially textiles. This resulted in a boom in the production of khadi and the Indian cotton industry.
The Swadeshi Movement began over a century ago on August 7th, and now this date is recognised as National Handloom Day to commemorate the movement.
Importance of the National Handloom Day
National Handloom Day holds significant importance for various reasons. It celebrates India’s centuries-old weaving practices, aims to preserve the heritage of the handloom sector, and seeks to empower the artisans who work within it. The day contributes to the following:
National Handloom Day raises public awareness about the contribution of the handloom industry to India’s culture and economy.
The day is dedicated to supporting weavers and artisans. It advocates for policies and programs that ensure their economic well-being while also celebrating their artistry and skill.
- Promotion of sustainable domestic products
This day promotes the use of domestic handloom products. These textiles are usually made with techniques that have a minimal environmental impact, making them more sustainable.
According to the Handloom Census of 2019-20, 72.29% of the industry’s workers are women. Promoting the handloom industry is crucial for the empowerment of women artisans.
National Handloom Day encourages investment in the sector by recognising individuals and organisations that adopt innovative marketing measures. Awards like the Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and the National Handloom Awards, which include cash prizes and certificates, are given to encourage this.
Besides these, several government schemes and campaigns also encourage investment in the handloom sector. These include the National Handloom Development Programme, the Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme, and the Raw Material Supply Scheme.
How does the handloom sector in India work?
India’s handloom products are world-renowned for their quality and expert technique. It is the largest cottage industry in the country, with about 23.77 lakh looms. Each region has had its own take on handloom products, from the Chanderi cloth of Madhya Pradesh to the tie-and-dye technique of Rajasthan.
Economically, the handloom industry is vital, contributing to 15% of India’s total cloth production. It is also one of the largest unorganised economic sectors, providing jobs to more than 3 million people, making it the second-largest employment provider in the country.
Most workers in this industry come from rural or semi-urban areas, with weavers and artisans typically living in small towns and villages, passing their techniques down through generations. Women make up a significant majority of the workforce, highlighting the role of handloom in empowering women and promoting financial independence.
What is the role of the handloom sector in exports?
The Indian handloom industry is globally celebrated for its durability, beauty, and impeccable craftsmanship. Products such as scarves, home textiles, and sarees are particularly renowned. Indian handloom items are exported to around 70 countries, including the United States, the U.K., Germany, Japan, and France.
Home textiles make up about 60% of India’s total handloom exports. Among the most popular exported products are mats, carpets, rugs, cushion covers, bed linens, and bedsheets. In 2022-23, exports of cotton durries were valued at approximately USD 144.61 million.
Clothing items, like silk scarves, are also in high demand, contributing USD 13.2 million to handloom exports in the same year. In 2023-24, the combined exports of cotton, yarn, fabric, and handloom products were valued at USD 10.59 billion.
Simply put, the handloom industry significantly contributes to the economy, generating substantial revenue and helping balance trade deficits.
Should you invest in the handloom sector?
Investing in the handloom sector offers significant benefits. As one of the largest economic activities in India, it employs millions of people and produces 95% of the world’s hand-woven fabric, greatly contributing to the country’s export earnings.
However, the industry also faces several challenges. These include competition from power looms, outdated infrastructure, and financial constraints. The sector requires modernisation and technological integration to improve market access and remain competitive.
Therefore, while investing in handlooms can be rewarding, it is essential to consider these hurdles and explore opportunities for innovation within the industry.
In conclusion
While the handloom sector faces challenges, there has been renewed interest and awareness thanks to government initiatives like National Handloom Day. This celebration highlights the crucial role of handloom in our social and economic lives, raises awareness of artisans, and encourages innovation and creativity. It also helps citizens appreciate the significant role handloom weaves play in our culture and history.
With the growth of technology and innovation, the handloom sector is opening doors for many new startups. If you are looking to establish your business in this sector, opt for business loans with Tata Capital. We offer customisable loan amounts, flexible repayment tenures, and minimal documentation.
25 September 2024
5 mins read
Previous Post
