Explore New Avenues in Bharat’s Handloom Sector
Bharat’s handlooms are not just fabrics but living legacies. From Banarasi silks to Kanjeevarams, each weave narrates a story of tradition, artistry, and identity. They sustain rural livelihoods, empower women, and stand as symbols of eco-friendly production.
In his recent speeches, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has urged citizens to buy from local artisans and manufacturers during this festive season. He has also encouraged shopkeepers to proudly display signs saying “Ye Samaan Swadeshi Hai”, reminding people to choose Made-in-India products. This call strengthens small manufacturers, artisans, and the handloom sector, ensuring that every purchase contributes directly to India’s growth story.
Under PM Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership, the sector has gained new strength, blending ancient craft with modern markets, digital platforms, and global recognition.
Jobs, Empowerment & Growth
The handloom sector today supports over 35 lakh weavers and allied workers, with over 70% women participation. Post-2014, government interventions have expanded market access, raw material availability, and skill development — creating lakhs of direct and indirect jobs across clusters, cooperatives, and digital platforms.
This is part of India’s larger employment story — where over 17 crore new jobs have been created nationwide since 2014, with the handloom ecosystem contributing significantly through women-led enterprises, producer companies, and exports.
Bharat on the Global Map
Handlooms are finding strong demand across the world:
- The United States remained the largest buyer in FY 2024–25, followed by the UAE, Netherlands, France, and the UK.
- Household made-ups like cushion covers, curtains, and table linen contributed the biggest share, followed by carpets, rugs, mats, clothing accessories, and fabrics.
Bharat proudly produces 95% of the world’s handwoven fabric, making it a true global leader in sustainable fashion.
Government Initiatives Driving Change
Under PM Modi’s vision, multiple initiatives have revitalised the sector:
- National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP): Nearly 800 clusters strengthened with over 42 lakh weavers supported through marketing assistance.
- Weavers’ MUDRA Loans: Almost 3 lakh weavers gained easier access to credit for scaling their work.
- Raw Material Supply Scheme (RMSS): Ensuring quality yarn at affordable prices.
- Hathkargha Samvardhan Sahayata: Up to 90% subsidy on modern looms to improve quality and productivity.
- Workshed Scheme: Dedicated workspaces near weavers’ homes, with 100% support for marginalised groups.
- India Handloom Brand (IHB): Assures quality and links weavers directly with consumers. Top brands like BIBA and Peter England have launched IHB collections.
- Geographical Indication (GI) Tags: Over 100 handloom products protected, including Tangail Sarees (West Bengal) and Barabanki Handloom Products (UP).
- Producer Companies & Digital Push: More than 160 producer companies set up; 1.80 lakh weavers onboarded on Government e-Marketplace; thousands of products sold via IndiaHandmade.com.
- Design Resource Centres (DRCs): NIFT-driven hubs in major weaving centres, providing design and innovation support.
Bharat’s handloom sector is a model of sustainable development, eco-friendly production, women’s empowerment, and rural prosperity. With global demand for ethical fashion rising, India is well-placed to lead the world in heritage textiles and sustainable design. By supporting weavers, promoting authentic handloom products, and choosing “Vocal for Local,” we can ensure that the timeless art of handlooms continues to weave prosperity for generations to come.
