On the occasion of National Handloom Day, a program was organized in Dehradun to honor the traditional weavers and handicraft artisans of Uttarakhand. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the 12th National Handloom Day celebrations organized by the Uttarakhand Handloom and Handicraft Development Council at the Chief Servant House. He honored outstanding weavers and artisans and gave a message to promote local products.
The Chief Minister also encouraged local artisans by purchasing traditional products made from nettle fiber. He said that handlooms and handicrafts are not only a source of employment, but also a symbol of Uttarakhand’s culture, tradition, and folk life.
Growing recognition of Uttarakhand products
The Chief Minister said that the state’s traditional products are gaining recognition not only in the country but also abroad due to their quality and uniqueness. Harshil’s woolen shawls, Munsyari and Dharchula’s thulma, Almora’s tweed, Chhinka’s fan, colorful Pichhora, ringal crafts, and products made from scorpion grass reflect Uttarakhand’s rich handicraft heritage.
The government is striving to adapt these products to modern market needs and make them accessible to larger markets. To this end, emphasis is being placed on design, training, modern technology, and marketing facilities.
Self-employment scheme provides financial assistance to craftsmen
The Chief Minister stated that various schemes are being implemented to make the handloom and handicraft sector self-reliant. Under the Chief Minister’s Self-Employment Scheme, loans totaling over Rs 4 crore and subsidies totaling over Rs 1 crore have been provided to 278 weavers and craftspeople so far. Approximately 834 people are claimed to have been employed as a result.
Apart from this, facilities like modern machines, training, design assistance and common facility centre are being provided to the artisans through National Handloom Development Programme and Comprehensive Handicraft Cluster Development Scheme.
Access to foreign markets through e-commerce
The government is now leveraging e-commerce platforms, fairs, and exhibitions to promote traditional products. The aim is to bring Uttarakhand’s local products to major cities across the country and the international market.
The Chief Minister said that the GI tag for many traditional products has strengthened their identity and brand value. Effective branding and improved marketing will also increase the income potential of local artisans.
Appeal to make ‘Vocal for Local’ a mass movement
The Chief Minister appealed to the people of the state to prioritize the purchase of local and indigenous goods. He said that purchasing products from a weaver or craftsman is not just about purchasing goods, but also about respecting the livelihood and hard work of their family.
Calling for promoting the spirit of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Local to Global’, he said that through collective efforts, the traditional art of Uttarakhand can be given a new identity in the global market.