On the occasion of National Handloom Day, Child Welfare Committee Chairman Ashok Kumar paid tribute to the remarkable skill, dedication and hard work of India’s handloom weavers. National Handloom Day is observed every year on August 7 to honour the country’s weavers, promote handloom products and preserve India’s rich hand-weaving traditions.

Ashok Kumar said handloom is not merely a means of producing fabric but represents India’s cultural identity, traditional heritage and the extraordinary craftsmanship of its weavers. Across the country, generations of artisans have preserved traditional weaving techniques and created products that reflect India’s diverse cultural heritage.

He said handloom weavers have made an invaluable contribution to preserving India’s traditional art and craft despite the challenges faced by the sector. Their skills deserve greater recognition, while handloom products should be promoted among consumers, particularly the younger generation.

Ashok Kumar emphasised the need to strengthen India’s Swadeshi identity by encouraging the use of locally produced handloom products. He said greater public awareness and support for indigenous products can help strengthen the livelihoods of weavers while preserving the country’s cultural heritage.

He further said children and young people should be introduced to the handloom industry and made aware of the immense skills and capabilities of Indian weavers. Educational institutions can play an important role by organising awareness programmes, exhibitions and activities highlighting traditional crafts and the contribution of artisans.

“Handloom is our heritage as well as an important part of India’s journey towards self-reliance,” Ashok Kumar said, stressing that collective efforts are needed to ensure that traditional weaving skills are passed on to future generations.

He appealed to citizens to give preference to handloom and other indigenous products whenever possible and support the artisans whose generations-old skills continue to enrich India’s cultural identity.

POD/DESK