PANAJI: The Goa government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening the state’s traditional handloom sector and creating better market opportunities for local weavers and artisans.
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant made the assurance while addressing the state-level celebration of the 12th National Handloom Day held at Sanskruti Bhavan, Patto, Panaji, on August 7.
Highlighting the importance of Goa’s traditional Kunbi Saree, Sawant said the government is working to give the state’s handloom products a distinct identity and expand their reach beyond Goa.
“Produce quality products, and the Government will ensure market access,” Sawant said, assuring weavers of continued support.
The Chief Minister said the introduction of weaving machinery in villages has encouraged greater participation by women in the sector. He also pointed to the growing demand for Kunbi Sarees across the country and said efforts to establish wider market linkages for Kunbi products are in the final stage.
Sawant also highlighted the promotion of Kunbi products at the national level, noting that Kunbi Shawls are presented to distinguished visitors, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as part of efforts to showcase Goa’s handloom heritage.
During the programme, the Chief Minister visited exhibition stalls featuring traditional products made by artisans from across Goa and interacted with women weavers working to preserve the state’s traditional weaving practices.
The celebration featured live demonstrations of handloom weaving and traditional block printing, along with an exhibition displaying products from 13 Handloom Production Centres and three Handloom Training Centres. Students also presented a handloom fashion show.
Loom Allotment Certificates and Sanction Orders were distributed to eligible handloom weavers during the event.
The programme also promoted the campaigns #MyHandloomMyPride and #MyProductMyPride, with emphasis on authentic handloom products, skill development, stronger market connections and sustainable livelihoods.
Officials from the Department of Handicrafts, Textile & Coir, along with weavers, artisans, students and other guests, attended the celebration.
The government said its initiatives are aimed at empowering Goa’s weaving community while ensuring that the state’s traditional handloom heritage continues to reach future generations.
