Giriraj Singh presents National Handloom Awards to 24 master weavers

Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh conferred the Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and National Handloom Awards 2025 to 24 outstanding master weavers, including six women and one Divyang artisan, in New Delhi on Thursday. The awards aim to recognise the work of weavers, designers, marketers, start-ups, and producer companies who have made a significant contribution in the field. Addressing the gathering on the occasion of the 11th National Handloom Day, Singh said that today the world is demanding sustainable textile products, and the Indian handloom industry is addressing that need. The Minister called for popularizing handloom products across the globe. He also noted that his ministry is working to protect the designs of the country’s weavers.

He stated that the Government is working towards protecting indigenous designs through cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Block chain, ensuring the intellectual property rights of Indian weavers and designers are safeguarded. Giriraj Singh urged the young generation to actively engage with the handloom industry, and called upon designers and weavers to collaborate in creating contemporary handloom products that appeal to youth across the country. Union Minister appealed to citizens to wear handloom at least once a week, supporting the rich tradition of Indian craftsmanship.

Speaking at the occasion, Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margherita noted that e-commerce integration is providing a wider market, and it is empowering the weavers with zero commission on selling platforms. He also said that with GI tagged products and branding support for the handloom mark and Handloom India brand, the government is ensuring authenticity, quality and eco-conscious craftsmanship.