With the goal of giving the state’s handloom weavers ongoing support and jobs, the Department of Handlooms and Textiles in Andhra Pradesh has announced a major partnership with Aadyam Hand-Woven, a project by the Aditya Birla Group.
This collaboration underscores the government’s commitment to advancing the handloom sector—a cherished cultural tradition and a source of livelihood for approximately 177,447 weavers across the state.
Andhra Pradesh’s handloom heritage spans generations, with each district producing unique fabrics that showcase intricate craftsmanship. Among the 35 One District One Product (ODOP) handloom designs, four have received prestigious Geographical Indication (G.I.) status: Uppada Jamdhani Sarees, Mangalagiri Sarees, Venkatagiri Sarees, and Dharmavaram Silk Sarees & Pavadas. These products represent Andhra Pradesh’s artistic legacy and vibrant cultural identity.
This initiative aligns with the directives of the Hon’ble Chief Minister and Hon’ble Minister for Handlooms and Textiles to elevate handloom weavers and enhance market reach for their crafts. To realize this vision, the Department has been actively collaborating with various organizations to establish impactful partnerships.
Through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), Aadyam Hand-Woven will engage with weaver communities in Uppada, Pulagurtha, Angara, Venkatagiri, and Kodumuru Gadwal under a continuous Loom Feed Model, which ensures stable and sustainable livelihoods while preserving traditional weaving techniques.
Aadyam, already collaborating with weaving communities in Varanasi, Pochampally, and Bhuj, aims to build a self-sustaining ecosystem for India’s finest artisans. By supporting traditional weaving techniques and improving artisans’ quality of life, Aadyam promotes a thriving heritage-based marketplace.
To finalize the MoU details, Smt. G. Rekha Rani, I.A.S., Commissioner of Handlooms & Textiles, Government of Andhra Pradesh, has scheduled a meeting with Mr. Manish Saksena, Aadyam’s representative, handloom weavers, and departmental officials on November 14, 2024.
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