Bargarh Handloom Summit 2024

The handloom sector is the largest economic activity after agriculture, providing direct and indirect employment to more than 30 lakh weavers in the country. This sector contributes nearly 22 percent of the total cloth produced in the country and also contributed substantially to the export income of the country. Handloom forms a precious part of the generational legacy and exemplifies the richness and diversity of our country and the artistry of the weavers.

Odisha has a rich tradition of producing handloom products. The skill and knowledge imbibed over the generations has given the state hand woven textiles an unparalleled depth, range, strength and vigour.

The Handloom Industry in Odisha is the largest cottage Industry providing employment and sustenance to 4 % of the population of the State. Right from producing superior artistic fabrics of excellence, this Industry also produces utility fabrics for the common masses at cheaper cost. Thus, promotion of the sector is highly essential in today’s date to uplift the weavers as well as preserve the art and culture of the state.

Bargarh administration, handlooms, textiles and handicrafts department and Western Odisha Development Council in association with World Trade Center Bhubaneswar as the knowledge partner organized Bargarh Handloom Summit 2024 from 4th – 5th January 2024. The initiative witnessed a buyer-seller meet which enabled interactions that transcend geographical boundaries with a purview to drive the growth and revitalize the handloom industry.

Almost 50+ exhibitors from 20 states participated in the event. The highlights of the event were Fashion Shows showcasing handloom weaves of the country, B2B Linkages, Award Shows, Artisan Interactions, Cultural Shows etc. Senior Government Officials, Bollywood Celebrities and various stakeholders also graced the session with their esteemed presence.

Officials from Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC) attended the summit and highlighted the significance of enrolling more potential exporters in order to boost exports from the state and assist the local artisans to explore the international market. They also deliberated on the importance of value addition to the handloom products and how HEPC is conducting a survey to identify the potential products and the relevant market.

The event was held at Bargarh, Odisha from 4 to 5 January 2024.