Handloom Is Not Just a Legacy, But a Living Industry: Handloom Development Commissioner Dr. M. Beena

New Delhi (07/08/2025): New Delhi is currently hosting the grand “India International Handwoven Expo – B2B Big Ticket Event 2025” from August 7 to 9, 2025. Organized as a special feature of National Handloom Day celebrations, this exclusive event was inaugurated by Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh, with Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles Pabitra Margherita present as the Guest of Honour. Adding to the occasion’s importance, Neelam Shami Rao (IAS), Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, also graced the event. The Expo began on August 7 at 2:00 PM at Hall 14 (Ground Floor), Bharat Mandapam, and has brought together stakeholders from across the country and abroad to celebrate and promote India’s vibrant handloom tradition.

On this special occasion, the Ten News Network team had an exclusive conversation with the Handloom Development Commissioner, Dr. M. Beena.

The aim of the event was to promote India’s rich and vibrant handloom tradition and to encourage those who are dedicated to its preservation and growth. On this special occasion, the Ten News Network team had an exclusive conversation with the Handloom Development Commissioner, Dr. M. Beena.

How was the response from exhibitors at this year’s Handloom Day?

Responding to the question, Dr. Beena said that the 11th National Handloom Day had gained international recognition, with 44 countries participating in the event. She emphasized that this was not just an annual celebration anymore but had evolved into a global platform to showcase India’s rich handloom heritage. She shared that not only Indian weavers, designers, and artisans participated, but also international buyers, entrepreneurs, and exporters actively took part.

She highlighted that India’s handloom sector has long embraced sustainability and low carbon footprint practices—concepts that are now gaining worldwide attention. According to her, what’s needed now is a strategic effort to transform our weavers into entrepreneurs and eventually exporters. The exhibition was designed with this vision in mind, aiming to guide weavers on how to present their products in the market and attract buyers.

What is your view on the training being provided to artisans under the Expo Bazaar initiative?

Dr. Beena responded by appreciating the artisans’ ability to create attractive and globally appealing products, but emphasized the need to connect them with proper training and modern marketing techniques. She suggested building a digital platform by uploading pictures of their products on websites so they can be directly connected with consumers and international buyers. She made it clear that the goal of the event is not just to celebrate but to turn the handloom sector into a strong economic force—this exhibition is a significant step in that direction.

How has India managed to produce 95% of the world’s handloom products?

She explained that while in many other countries handloom has been reduced to museum displays, India remains the only country where handloom is still a thriving part of daily life. She stated that approximately 3.5 million people are directly involved in the handloom sector, while another 3 million are indirectly connected. Indian handloom products enjoy a special identity in global markets, with nearly 25% of the products being of Indian origin. According to her, in India, handloom is not just a business—it is a living tradition woven into the very fabric of people’s lives.

This year’s celebration of National Handloom Day reflects the government’s and HEPC’s shared commitment to reviving traditional industries. Award-winning weavers also shared their experiences, saying the recognition motivates them to continue striving for excellence. A vibrant exhibition of handloom products from different parts of the country attracted great attention from visitors.

Overall, the event was a powerful effort to honor India’s traditional heritage and connect future generations with its enduring significance.