In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister praised the country’s weavers and artisans for keeping India’s rich textile traditions alive through their craftsmanship and dedication across generations.
“Today, on National Handloom Day, we celebrate India’s rich and vibrant handloom heritage. We also salute the skill, creativity and dedication of our weavers and artisans. For generations, they have preserved and enriched our traditions,” Modi said.
Highlighting the government’s continued focus on the sector, he said, “Our government will keep supporting the handloom sector, which is an important pillar of rural empowerment, women-led development and fulfilling the dream of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
Encouraging greater public participation in promoting indigenous textiles, the Prime Minister appealed to people to showcase their favourite handloom products on social media.
“Do share your favourite handloom products and GRWM videos using #NationalHandloomDay, which will encourage those associated with the sector,” he said.
Observed annually on August 7, National Handloom Day commemorates the launch of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905, which championed the use of indigenous products and gave a significant boost to India’s traditional industries during the freedom struggle. The occasion celebrates the contribution of the handloom sector to the country’s cultural legacy, economy and employment, while recognising the efforts of millions of weavers and artisans who continue to preserve traditional weaving practices.
The handloom sector remains one of India’s largest employment generators after agriculture, supporting millions of weavers and allied workers across the country, with women accounting for a substantial share of the workforce.
Over the years, the Central government has rolled out a range of initiatives aimed at expanding market access, improving branding, promoting exports, facilitating technology adoption and enhancing the livelihoods of handloom weavers through financial assistance and skill development programmes.
