Emphasising the cultural, economic and national significance of India’s handloom tradition, Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar on Thursday said the sector is not merely about textiles, but a reflection of civilizational continuity and self-reliance.
Speaking at the 12th National Handloom Day celebration in Ranchi, he called for making “Handloom for Home” a daily practice, honoured local weavers, and underlined the need to connect artisans with youth, innovation and mainstream markets.
The event, organised by the Weavers’ Development and Research Organisation (WDRO) and the Bunkar Prakoshth at Doranda College, brought together craftspersons, students and stakeholders from the handloom sector.
“Each thread and weave tells a story — not just of fabric, but of tradition, memory, and identity,” the Governor said. “To embrace handloom is to embrace the ethos of India.”
Calling the occasion both a celebration and a recognition, he said that the country owes a great debt to millions of weaver families who continue to strengthen the foundation of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
The Governor cited national initiatives such as Vocal for Local and Handloom for Home as significant policy directions that have revived interest in indigenous products. He encouraged citizens to adopt handwoven textiles in their everyday lives as a practical form of support and cultural preservation.
Drawing from his tenure as Union Minister of Textiles, Gangwar said he had worked directly with handloom workers and artisans across India. “Efforts were made to address core challenges in skill development, provide technical support, and expand market linkages,” he noted.
Highlighting Jharkhand’s textile identity, he said tasar silk and katha embroidery have earned the state distinction in global markets. He also referred to two recent documentary films — Sangathan Se Safalta and Fashion ke Liye Khadi — as meaningful narratives that showcase the socio-economic role of handloom.
Appreciating the initiative taken by WDRO and the Bunkar Prakoshth, the Governor said the platform could serve as a bridge between traditional artisans, local innovation, and young entrepreneurs.
Select weavers were felicitated at the event for their contribution to the craft.
“The idea of ‘Handloom for Home’ should not remain a slogan. It should become part of our everyday lives,” the Governor.