Balancing Tradition with Technology
Chaired by Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, the conference focused on integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern tools to boost productivity while reducing drudgery. She urged institutions such as NIFT and IIHT to forecast design and colour trends in sync with market cycles. Rao emphasized that handlooms and handicrafts should not be seen as peripheral but as premium contributors to India’s future economy.
Highlighting the need for inter-State collaboration, she called for seamless raw material flow across States to build efficient, sustainable supply chains. She also announced that similar conferences will be held every six months to sustain policy dialogue, cross-learning, and review progress.
Strengthening Cooperative Federalism
Smt. Anu Garg, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Odisha, highlighted the cultural and ecological value of handlooms, citing Odisha’s iconic Kotpad and Dongria Shawls. She proposed setting up a Sustainability Cell and promoting eco-friendly textiles like Katha Silk. Garg also advocated for artisan recognition through name-tagging, along with youth-oriented training in design and market research.
Blueprint for National Traditional Textile Mission
Dr. M. Beena, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), presented a vision for the National Traditional Textile Mission (2026–31). The mission aims to advance cooperative federalism, skill upgradation, women-led development, cluster infrastructure, and innovation hubs linked to Geographical Indications (GI). It aligns closely with the national goal of Viksit Bharat 2047, ensuring artisans are central to India’s development story.
Ms. Amrit Raj, Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), outlined governance reforms for the sector through a three-tier National-State-District model. The proposed system focuses on decentralised, transparent, and digital-first implementation backed by PMU-led monitoring.
Showcasing Odisha’s Craft Heritage
The conference was inaugurated by Shri Manoj Ahuja, Chief Secretary, Government of Odisha. A Theme Pavilion at Taj Vivanta showcased Odisha’s diverse craft legacy, inaugurated by Ahuja himself. Delegates also visited Kala Bhoomi, Boyanika, and Utkalika showrooms to witness the region’s rich handloom heritage.
Reaffirming Commitment to Artisans
The two-day event concluded with a shared commitment to build an inclusive, innovation-driven handmade economy. Discussions underscored that India’s handloom and handicraft sectors are not just cultural symbols but engines of sustainable livelihood and national pride. As the nation marches toward Viksit Bharat 2047, the government’s focus remains clear empower artisans, promote design innovation, and preserve heritage through cooperative governance.
