The National Handloom Day recently, marked its 10th anniversary on 7th August, 2024.
About National Handloom Day:
- National Handloom Day was inaugurated by the Prime Minister on 7th August 2015 to celebrate and honour the rich cultural heritage of India’s handloom weavers.
- It serves as a platform to celebrate the diversity and richness of India’s handloom heritage.
- The day recognizes the craftsmanship and skills of handloom weavers, promoting handloom products both domestically and internationally.
- The 2023 theme was “Handlooms for Sustainable Fashion,” highlighting the role of handloom weaving as an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to machine-made fabrics.
- This day traces its origins in the Swadeshi Movement, launched on August 7, 1905, during India’s struggle for independence.
- The movement, in response to the British decision to partition Bengal, used handlooms as a symbol of resistance against British rule and reducing reliance on foreign goods.
- Exhibitions and fashion shows are organized to showcase the versatility of handloom textiles along with cultural festivals and workshops of local artisans.
Significance:
- It provides employment to 3.5 million weavers and workers, mainly in rural and semi-rural areas.
- Out of these, 2.5 million are women, which makes the handloom sector a major source of economic empowerment of women.
- 70% of weavers and workers belong to SC, ST and OBC categories, making handloom sector an instrument of social empowerment.
Ref: Source
| UPSC IAS Preparation Resources | |
| Current Affairs Analysis | Topperspedia |
| GS Shots | Simply Explained |
| Daily Flash Cards | Daily Quiz |
Frequently Asked Question:
When is National Handloom Day celebrated?
National Handloom Day is celebrated on August 7th each year.
What is the purpose of National Handloom Day?
National Handloom Day was inaugurated to celebrate and honor India’s rich handloom heritage, recognize the craftsmanship and skills of handloom weavers, and promote handloom products.
Why was August 7th chosen for National Handloom Day?
August 7th was chosen to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement, which began on August 7, 1905, during India’s struggle for independence. The movement used handlooms as a symbol of resistance against British rule.