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Union Minister Inaugurates Handloom Expo, Celebrates NHDC's 43-Year Legacy

Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh inaugurated a Special Handloom Expo in Delhi, presiding over the 43rd Foundation Day of the National Handloom Development Corporation. He emphasized the sector's role in rural livelihoods and reiterated the government's commitment to strengthening domestic manufacturing and market access for artisans. The event featured the release of a multi-lingual comic book to educate youth and a felicitation ceremony for distinguished weavers. The ongoing expo aims to create direct market linkages between weavers and consumers through numerous stalls.

Key Points: Giriraj Singh Inaugurates Special Handloom Expo in Delhi

  • Expo promotes Swadeshi textiles
  • Supports weaver livelihoods
  • Comic book for youth awareness
  • Felicitates master artisans
2 min read

NHDC's 43rd Foundation Day: Union Minister Giriraj Singh inaugurates Special Handloom Expo in Delhi

Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh inaugurated a handloom expo and celebrated NHDC's 43rd Foundation Day, highlighting support for weavers.

"pivotal role of the handloom sector in sustaining rural livelihoods - Giriraj Singh"

New Delhi, February 23

Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh on Monday inaugurated the Special Handloom Expo and presided over the 43rd Foundation Day celebrations of the National Handloom Development Corporation at Handloom Haat, Janpath here.

The Ministry of Textiles mentioned that the celebration marked a significant milestone in NHDC's 43-year journey of strengthening India's handloom ecosystem and supporting the livelihoods of weavers nationwide.

Addressing the gathering, Giriraj Singh emphasised the pivotal role of the handloom sector in sustaining rural livelihoods and promoting sustainable, indigenous production systems.

He reiterated the Government of India's commitment to strengthening domestic manufacturing, expanding market access for artisans, and encouraging citizens to actively support Swadeshi textiles. The Minister also outlined the roadmap for NHDC's future initiatives while appreciating the Corporation's sustained efforts in empowering the weaving community.

The Foundation Day celebrations were held as part of the ongoing Special Handloom Expo (February 21- March 2), aimed at promoting Swadeshi handloom products, strengthening direct market linkages between weavers and consumers, and enhancing sustainable livelihood opportunities for artisans.

During the event, the Minister released a multi-lingual comic book designed to create greater awareness about the handloom sector, particularly among younger audiences. The publication presents the legacy, processes, and cultural significance of handloom weaving in an engaging and accessible format.

An Annual Report presentation highlighted NHDC's key achievements over the past year, including major initiatives, outreach programmes, and efforts toward economic empowerment of weavers.

Distinguished weavers and artisans were felicitated for their exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and enduring contribution to preserving and promoting India's rich weaving traditions.

Enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the celebration, a Paridhan Pradarshini showcased an elegant display of handloom garments reflecting the diversity, craftsmanship, and aesthetic excellence embedded in India's regional weaving traditions.

The Union Minister also visited the exhibition area at Handloom Haat, which features 60 stalls, comprising of 48 handloom and 12 handicraft stalls, and interacted with weavers and exhibitors. He appreciated the quality, innovation, and wide variety of handwoven products on display.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good initiative, but I hope this translates into real, sustained income for the weavers. Often these expos are great for visibility, but the regular market access and fair pricing remain a challenge. The comic book for youth is a clever idea though!
A
Arjun K
Swadeshi is the way forward! When we buy handloom, we are not just buying a cloth, we are preserving a heritage and supporting a family. More power to NHDC for 43 years. Will definitely visit the expo.
S
Sarah B
The multi-lingual comic book is such a smart move to engage the next generation. It's crucial to make our children appreciate the skill and history behind these textiles, not just see them as old-fashioned.
V
Vikram M
Janpath's Handloom Haat is a gem in Delhi. Felicitating the master weavers is a much-deserved recognition. Their work is pure art. Hope the government's roadmap includes better digital platforms for these artisans to sell directly.
M
Meera T
Sustainable and indigenous production systems are the need of the hour. Our handlooms are eco-friendly and provide livelihoods in villages. This is real development. The Paridhan Pradarshini must have been beautiful to see!

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