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A sixth-grade social science textbook that I read described India as a piece of fabric, with countless threads coloured in a myriad of majestic shades, woven together. This metaphor holds exceptionally well when put into the context of our <keyword id="22706215" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="handloom-industry" source="keywords">handloom industry</keyword>. India has a rich history of handlooms and weaving cultures. The culture of handlooms is so intricately woven into Indian culture, that there are whole towns dedicated to the same: <keyword id="248532" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Chanderi" source="Orion">Chanderi</keyword> in Madhya Pradesh to Pochampally in Telangana and a dozen more! Unfortunately, the handloom industry in India is dying. The struggle is multi-faceted, ranging from a declining workforce to fierce competition from <keyword id="20496028" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="power-looms" source="keywords">power looms</keyword>. Hence, five years ago, August 7 was proclaimed <keyword id="22677698" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="National-Handloom-Day" source="keywords">National Handloom Day</keyword> in response to this crisis and to heighten public awareness. This date holds special historical significance, commemorating the initiation of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905—a pivotal act of defiance against British colonial rule. <h2>When did this industry come into existence?</h2>According to archaeological findings, the origins of handloom in the Indian subcontinent may be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization. The Mughal Empire was known to support and patronise <keyword id="20258864" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="weavers" source="keywords">weavers</keyword>. The support from the royal patrons resulted in the invention of new textiles such as ‘Mulmul’ and ‘Banarasi Brocade’ among others. This era witnessed a heightened worldwide demand for Indian textiles. In the 17th century, India produced 25% of the world’s textiles, with Bengal accounting for more than 50% of textiles and 80% of silks imported by the Dutch from Asia. <h2>What led to the decline of the <keyword id="19934660" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Indian-handloom" source="keywords">Indian handloom</keyword>?</h2>The East India Company's entry fuelled the industry's initial decline, which started in the 1830s. The weavers were obliged to sell only to the British, and that too at exceedingly cheap prices, virtually putting them out of business. On the other hand, Indian cloth was taxed excessively to promote machine-made British clothing. The Industrial Revolution in Britain strengthened their indigenous textile industry, giving rise to new markets for cheaper textiles. In India, the collapse of the Mughal aristocracies meant no access to royal patronage. As a result, textiles like Khadi and muslin had little demand in the market. Circling back to the present, the industry is facing both similar and new challenges. Fabrics made on power looms are cheaper and faster to produce, in comparison to handloom fabrics. The industry is largely unorganised, and the wages are shockingly low. 67% of <keyword id="22706216" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="handloom-workers" source="keywords">handloom workers</keyword> are earning less than the minimum wage every month. Faced with economic challenges, the older artisans are thus forced to encourage the newer generation to choose an alternative career path. This migration of the workforce from a traditional sector is evident from the fall in the number of weavers less than 35 years of age- from 26.13 lakh in 2009-10 to 16.07 lakh in 2019-20. The majority of weavers do not have access to banking facilities, let alone institutional credit. Furthermore, if one manages to accumulate credit, there is a mismatch between the supply and demand forces due to the lack of awareness about handwoven textiles in the current generation. <h2>Initiatives for revival</h2>The cultural significance of the Indian handloom isn’t just limited to its beauty and extravagance, but it extends to our independence struggle as well. The Swadeshi movement immortalised the charkha and advocated for the use of indigenous goods. Following independence, the Indian government took many measures to revive the handloom industry. In 1953, India’s Parliament approved the Khadi and Other Handloom Industries Development Act. In 1955, the All India Handloom Fabrics Marketing Cooperative Society was formed to promote the sale of fabrics produced by handloom cooperatives across India. The National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP) aimed to provide financial assistance for marketing and production. The Handloom Weavers’ Comprehensive Welfare Scheme offers health and life insurance to weavers, to ensure social security. The organisation commenced a fortnight-long exhibition, “VIRAASAT” dedicated to celebrating the 10th National Handloom Day began at Handloom Haat in Janpath, New Delhi on Saturday, 3rd August 2024, and will conclude on 16th August 2024. The Handloom Mark scheme was introduced to authenticate handloom products, thus enabling weavers to gain better market access and ensuring that consumers get genuine products. Moreover, the India Trade Portal also mentions that the GOI plans to provide financial assistance of Rs. 30 crore to at least 10,000 handlooms. Various state governments also regularly conduct handloom expos and fairs, providing platforms for weavers to showcase and sell their products directly to consumers. <h2>Contemporary Brands and their love for Indian handloom</h2>Modern, popular designers such as <keyword id="8264" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sabyasachi" source="Orion">Sabyasachi</keyword> and <keyword id="21493890" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ritu-kumar" source="keywords">Ritu Kumar</keyword> are known to work closely with weavers and have been doing their part by bringing worldwide attention to the handloom industries. Recently, <keyword id="1472101" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ajrakh" source="Orion">Ajrakh</keyword> was brought into the limelight when Alia Bhatt wore a custom Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla Ajrakh saree to Joy Awards in Riyadh. However, it’s not just the fashion moguls who are working towards the revival of this industry. Contemporary indie brands are partnering with local weavers, and creating awareness about their work. The emergence of such indie brands and their association with local artisans is beneficial for both entities. For instance, Joskai Studio derives its name from ‘Joskai’, a woven piece of cloth worn as a part of the traditional costume of the Tiwa community of Assam. They work with artisans in northeast India, specifically from the weaving village of Saualkuchi in Assam. Rouka by Sreejith Jeevan is a Kerala-based brand that works strictly with weavers from Kerala, specifically Chendamangalam and Kuthampally. <h2>Employment and Exports</h2>According to the Indian Trade Portal, the Indian handloom sector is the country’s second-largest employer after agriculture in rural areas. The Handloom Census 2019-20 mentions that the industry employs about 35,22,512 workers across the country, with women forming 77.29% of the workforce. India is the second largest exporter of handloom products in the world, with exports valued at $ 353.9 million in 2017- 18, as per EXIM bank's working papers. The major handloom export centres are Karur, Panipat, Varanasi and Kannur where handloom products like bed linen, table linen, toilet linen, floor coverings, and embroidered textile materials and curtains etc. are produced for export markets. During April 2021-February 2022, India exported handloom products worth 1693 crore, as per Indian Trade Portal. Indian silk scarves also form a sizable chunk of total handloom exports, in addition to home textiles like carpets, rugs and mats, which constitute over 13.6% of India’s total handloom exports. <h2>The Path Forward</h2>The mere existence of organisations and allocation of funds isn’t enough to sustain the legacy of India’s rich handloom industry. Big corporations working with local weavers ensure employment but don't protect them from exploitation and meagre wages, leaving them vulnerable. The people in power ought to come up with strategies that ensure the trickle-down effect of the schemes and funds. The new generation of buyers has a greater purchasing power than the one before them. Marketing focused on bringing Indian handloom practices into the limelight can do wonders in this case.

Fabric of a nation: Sustaining India's handloom legacy in modern times

London, Around 500 women are set to participate in a first-of-its-kind <keyword id="6883927" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="saree-walkathon" source="Orion">saree walkathon</keyword>, which will be held in London to mark <keyword id="2941649" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="national-handloom-day" source="Orion">National Handloom Day</keyword> on August 7, and raise awareness about Indian handloom. The women, wearing the drapes representing different states of India, will walk past the iconic and historical landmarks on August 6, London-based news website UK Malayalees reported. The walkathon will begin from <keyword id="592224" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Trafalgar-Square" source="Orion">Trafalgar Square</keyword> and move to the historic Parliament Square in Westminster, London, via 10 Downing Street. The event is organised by the British Women In Sarees group and is supported by the Inspiring Indian Women group. "The modern Indian woman of today believes in traversing the world beyond her cocoon and she does all that and more, in a saree while redefining the codes of power dressing," Dipti Jain of British Women in Sarees group, which is hosting the event, told ukmalayalees.com. "The British Women in Sarees group was formed out of this idea. It is a group of empowered women who take pride in flaunting handloom sarees and representing the unique cultural melting pot that is India. It is a not-for-profit organisation which likes to organise events to promote our National Heritage and make everyone around the world aware of the toil, handwork and artistry which goes behind weaving each of these masterpieces," Jain told the website. She had also organised the very first event at the Ladies Day Royal Ascot Races on June 16, 2022 in Berkshire, where several women from the Indian subcontinent turned up in sarees. "As residents of UK, we felt elated and proud of the inclusivity that the stage provided us to pay homage to our roots, India. The world watched us but the limelight that our sarees fetched provided us the platform to raise awareness about the plight of artisans and weavers who need support to continue and pass on their craft to the next generation," Jain said. The proceeds from the event were given to a community of weavers in Nanoor, West Bengal. "As we grow bigger, we intend to reach out, grow and connect with more artisans and weavers who need support. This will be our way of preserving ancient handicrafts," she told UKMalayalees. At the upcoming walkathon, a team of 30 women from Kerala will be showcasing the traditional settu mundu and handloom sarees bought directly from the weavers to support them. They will also do a traditional Kerala dance at the Parliament Square before finishing off with a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. --IANS mi/ksk

500 saree clad women to take part in a London walkathon to promote handlooms

Star couturier <keyword id="19970644" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tarun-tahiliani" source="keywords">Tarun Tahiliani</keyword> is in the eye of the proverbial storm over his <keyword id="21239939" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="designs" source="keywords">designs</keyword> for the <keyword id="20287873" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-contingent" source="keywords">Indian contingent</keyword> at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games with epithets such as "pathetic" and "mediocre" being used to describe his creations. As the <keyword id="21679717" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="uniforms" source="keywords">uniforms</keyword> became a talking point on social media platforms and elsewhere too, several people also criticised the designs for becoming a promotion for <keyword id="22604764" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tasva" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Tasva" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Tasva">Tasva</keyword>, the collaborative label of <keyword id="22604763" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tahiliani" source="keywords">Tahiliani</keyword> and the <keyword id="19907441" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Aditya-Birla-Group" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Aditya Birla Group" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Aditya Birla Group">Aditya Birla Group</keyword>. The men's attire, the classic kurta bundi silhouette, had panel detailing in the colours of the national flag, safari pockets, and rolled-up sleeves. The women's saris featured a pre-pleated design for convenience and ease of wear. Their borders featured the panelling in tricolour. They completed the look in gold brocade sneakers. What has not gone down well for some is the way brand logo has been incorporated prominently in the borders of the garments, the fabric used and the fits. Tahiliani's team said he was unavailable for comment when PTI reached out for a response. However, he defended himself in an interview with NDTV when he said he stood by his work and said the opening ceremony was not a couture show. "We wanted the team in the colours of the tricolour as most countries follow their flag and that was visible from afar. It would have been very easy for me to send them in zardozi vests. But it's not appropriate," Tahiliani said. He added that he and his team had only three weeks to prepare the costumes. "I can't weave handloom for 300 uniforms in that time. The shoes were brocade, brocade from Benares," he told NDTV. Tahiliani also slammed "armchair critics" who accused him of charging a heavy sum for crafting these designs. "This was paid for by Tasva. It was not done for a fee, it was done to support our athletes. Asking what I was paid for it just shows their mentality," he added. Among those criticising the designer, who made headlines of another sort entirely when he dressed American reality star Kim Kardashian for the Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant wedding, was former badminton star Jwala Gutta. "The garments which was made for the Indian contingent participating in <keyword id="19933819" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Olympics" source="keywords">Olympics</keyword> this time has been a huge disappointment!! (Especially when the designer was announced I had huge expectations) (sic)" she wrote, without mentioning Tahiliani's name. Gutta argued that not all women know how to wear a sari and that's why the designer should have crafted "pre draped" saris, which are a current trend. "The girls looked uncomfortable the blouse was of bad fit!! And second the colour and the print was so opposite of beautiful Indian!!! There was an opportunity for the designer to display the art of our culture through embroidery or hand paint!! "It was a work of absolute mediocrity and looked shabby!!! I really hope the sports family stops compromising on quality for our sportspersons looks on court and off court!!!! (sic)" Gutta wrote, posting photographs of herself from the 2016 Rio Olympics with fellow badminton players PV Sindhu, Ashwini Ponnappa and tennis star Rohan Bopanna. A user reshared her post and wrote: "Hello Tarun Tahiliani! I have seen better Sarees sold in Mumbai streets for Rs.200 than these ceremonial uniforms you've 'designed'. Cheap polyester like fabric, Ikat PRINT (!!!), tricolors thrown together with no imagination. Did you outsource it to an intern or come up with it in the last 3 minutes before the deadline? Such a disgrace to the rich weaving culture and history of India." There were others who were not too convinced either. Another user said designers for the Mongolia and Sri Lanka contingents did a better job dressing their teams. Others shared videos of the designs as reimagined by AI and wrote Tahiliani's design can be "easily replaced" by technology. One user said the kurtas were "creased", the blouse "poor fitting" and the sari was "not even white". "I don't know what Tarun Tahiliani was thinking while scribbling these pathetic uniforms, did our champions really bad. The women's saree look like 'before' shot in an Ujala Ad. While menswear, it's just looks a bit ..ringard if I may say in spirit of Paris! (sic)" commented another. According to Ashish Mukul, brand head, Tasva, the ceremonial attire for Team India is "crafted with a profound sense of national pride and an aim to balance tradition with modernity". In a statement, Mukul said the garments draw inspiration from the Indian flag, "symbolizing unity, and pride, which is one of the richest ways of representing India". He said the contemporary silhouettes, such as the Bundi jacket and pre-pleated sari, were carefully chosen to ensure "both comfort and functionality" for the athletes. "The fabrics, including cotton and viscose crepe, are selected for their practical and aesthetic qualities, as our athletes would be out in the open for almost 6 hours during the event. The use of Ikat-inspired prints and modern elements is a deliberate choice to reflect modern India. Our intention is to create an attire that represents India's rich heritage and ensure our athletes feel comfortable and confident," he added. Two-time Olympic medallist Sindhu, who was one of the flag bearers of the Indian contingent along with table tennis legend A Sharath Kamal, had posted a series of pictures on X ahead of Friday's ceremony. "Paris 2024, flag bearer-one of the greatest honors of my life to hold our country's flag in front of millions," she wrote.

Tarun Tahiliani at centre of controversy over "mediocre" designs for Indian contingent at Olympics

Despite unfavourable economic conditions in major markets such as the European Union (EU), the US, and West Asian nations, Indian <keyword id="21353395" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="textile-exports" source="keywords">textile exports</keyword> grew by 9.59 per cent compared to the previous year in May 2024, the Confederation of <keyword id="22064995" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-textile" source="keywords">Indian Textile</keyword> Industry (CITI) said in a report. Simultaneously, <keyword id="22064997" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-apparel-exports" source="keywords">Indian apparel exports</keyword> saw a growth of 9.84 per cent during the same period. The CITI in its report highlighted that the cumulative exports of textiles and apparel during May 2024 registered a growth of 9.70 per cent over May last year. The country's overall exports for May 2024 surged to USD 68.29 billion. This was a substantial year-on-year increase of 10.2 per cent, according to data released by the Commerce Ministry on June 14. The analysis noted that during Apr -May' 24, Indian textile exports registered a growth of 6.04 per cent over the previous year, while apparel exports registered a growth of 4.46 per cent during the same time period. The cumulative exports of textiles and apparel during April-May 2024 saw a surge of 5.34 per cent as compared to the same period last year. The recently released export data revealed that sectors such as electronic goods, drugs and pharmaceuticals, organic and inorganic chemicals, engineering goods, petroleum products, plastics &amp; linoleum, cotton yarn/fabs made-ups ( textiles manufactured), handloom products, etc., man-made yarn/fabs./made-ups, handloom products etc. performed well in the exports from the country. Other merchandise products, such as meat, dairy and poultry products, mica, coal and other ores, minerals including processed minerals, RMG of all textiles, tea, coffee, rice, tobacco, carpet and handicrafts, oil seeds; and fruits and vegetables, did well too. On Friday, AshwKumar, President of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), highlighted that a positive trajectory was seen in May 2024, driven by robust order bookings. Among the top ten export markets for India were the US, UAE, Netherlands, UK, China, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Germany and France. Considerably, in these markets, the exports registered a double-digit growth rate. Breaking down export data released yesterday, the merchandise exports witnessed a 9.1 per cent rise to USD 38.13 billion, while service exports climbed by 11.7 per cent, reaching USD 30.16 billion. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/hyundai-motor-india-files-draft-papers-with-sebi-for-indias-biggest-ipo/articleshow/111014559.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/hyundai-motor-india-files-draft-papers-with-sebi-for-indias-biggest-ipo/articleshow/111014559.cms" target="_blank">Hyundai Motor India files draft papers with SEBI for India’s biggest IPO</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/tata-group-reportedly-looking-to-acquire-a-majority-stake-in-vivo-india/articleshow/110987274.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/tata-group-reportedly-looking-to-acquire-a-majority-stake-in-vivo-india/articleshow/110987274.cms" target="_blank">Tata Group reportedly looking to acquire a majority stake in Vivo India</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sports/webstories/kkr-beats-mi-in-terms-of-brand-value-csk-and-rcb-continue-to-lead/slidelist/110963926.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sports/webstories/kkr-beats-mi-in-terms-of-brand-value-csk-and-rcb-continue-to-lead/slidelist/110963926.cms" target="_blank">KKR beats MI in terms of brand value, CSK and RCB continue to lead</a>

Indian textile exports surge by 9.59% in May despite global economic challenges

Despite geopolitical tensions in <keyword id="19897269" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="europe" source="keywords">Europe</keyword> and the <keyword id="19904316" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="middle-east" source="keywords">Middle East</keyword>, <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s <keyword id="20631272" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="merchandise-exports" source="keywords">merchandise exports</keyword> grew by 5.8% to $109.96 billion compared to $103.9 billion in the same period last year, according to a CRISIL report. The report states that the deceleration in the growth momentum of exports in June compared to May was largely due to an 18.2% contraction in oil exports. The growth momentum slowed down in June, with merchandise exports increasing by only 2.6% year-on-year, down from 9.1% in May. Non-oil exports continued to maintain steady growth, rising by 7.7% in June, almost in line with the 7.8% growth recorded in May. Services exports exhibited a strong performance in June, contributing positively to the overall trade scenario. The positive aspect is that merchandise imports grew at a slower pace of 5% year-on-year in June, down from 7.7% in May. However, core imports, excluding oil and gold, surged by 7.1%, increasing from the 0.8% growth in the previous month. This spike in core imports was partially driven by a low base effect from the previous year. Despite the positive growth in exports, the <keyword id="20201391" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="trade-deficit" source="keywords">trade deficit</keyword> widened to $21 billion in June from $19.2 billion in the same month last year. For the first quarter, cumulative imports rose by 7.7% to $172.4 billion from $160 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $62.44 billion, up from $56.1 billion. This widening deficit was mainly due to a higher oil trade deficit, while the non-oil trade deficit narrowed. Services exports were a bright spot, increasing by 10.2% year-on-year to $29.76 billion in May. On the other hand, service import growth moderated to 5.4%, down from 19.1% in the previous month. Consequently, the services trade surplus expanded to $13.02 billion, up from $11.1 billion in May last year. Oil exports fell by 18.3% year-on-year and 18.5% month-on-month in June, despite stable international prices. This suggests a reduction in export volumes, with exports falling to $5.5 billion from $6.8 billion in June last year and the previous month. Oil imports increased by 19.6% in June compared to 28% in May, driven by domestic demand and local refineries operating above capacity. Sectors such as drugs and pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, organic and inorganic chemicals, and ready-made garments showed positive growth. However, pharmaceuticals (9.9% vs. 10.5%) and ready-made garments (3.7% vs. 9.8%) saw slower growth compared to May. Gems and jewellery exports continued to decline, marking the seventh consecutive month of negative growth at -1.4% year-on-year. Growth in carpets, handloom products, man-made products, plastics, and linoleum was positive but slower than the previous month. Handmade carpets (-16.6% vs. 20.6%), jute manufacturing (-11.1% vs. -5.2%), and leather products (-2.2% vs -2.1%) recorded contractions. Cashew exports have been declining since 2018, with only sporadic months of positive growth. In June, cashew exports fell by 7.3%, an improvement from the 25.8% decline in May. Coffee (70% vs. 64.2%), fruits and vegetables (7% vs. 20.8%), rice (1% vs. 2.8%), spices (9.8%vs. 20.3%), tea (3.2% vs. 19.6%), and tobacco (37.7% vs. 58.4%) saw slower growth compared to May. Marine products (-7.7% vs. -3.9%) and meat, dairy, and poultry products (-13.9% vs. 22.9%) also experienced a decline. Increases were noted in electronic goods (15.9% vs. 6.7%), fruits and vegetables (22.6% vs. 3%), non-ferrous metals (47.6% vs. 1.1%), project goods (31.4% vs. -44.3%), textiles and yarn fabric made-up articles (23.8% vs. -1.1%), and wood products (16.2% vs. -7.2%). The fiscal year has started positively with steady merchandise export growth in the first quarter. Encouragingly, multilateral organisations have forecasted better year-on-year trade growth. The Indian government's focus on foreign trade agreements (FTAs) is expected to further boost trade. However, the persistent growth in imports surpassing exports is a concern, widening the trade deficit. The recent US tariff hikes on Chinese imports could lead to potential dumping by China in the Asian market, including India, which requires close monitoring. Despite these challenges, the expected moderation in domestic growth may help contain import growth and the trade deficit. The service trade surplus and robust remittance flows are positive indicators that the current account will remain stable.

Indian exports show resilience amid global challenges in first quarter, says CRISIL report

New Delhi, Jan 27 () E-commerce major Flipkart on Monday said it has signed a MoU with Gujarat State Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd (GSHHDC) for promotion of local handicrafts.
 The agreement is part of Flipkart's Samarth initiative under which the Walmart-backed company is helping artisans, weavers and craftsmen set up their business on the Flipkart Marketplace.
 As part of this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), GSHHDC and Flipkart will work together to enhance business and trade inclusion opportunities for artisans, weavers and craftsmen in Gujarat, a statement said.
 Eligible sellers under GSHHDC will receive training and incubation support from Flipkart in the form of onboarding, business insights, dedicated seller support and warehousing, it added.
 "The MoU with Flipkart is the start of a new era for Garvi Gurjari. The handloom and handicraft artisans living in remote areas of Gujarat will now be able to use Flipkart's platform to expand their market reach," GSHHDC Managing Director Mahesh Singh said.
 Along with marketing their products, the artisans will gain valuable knowledge about developments in designs, colour patterns and selling techniques from the platform, he added.
 "With every artisan who becomes a part of Samarth, we take a step further in making e-commerce more inclusive for all Indians and contributing to the economic growth and prosperity in the country," Flipkart Group Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Rajneesh Kumar said. SR SHW
SHW

Flipkart partners Gujarat State Handloom, Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd

The government is in the process of developing a trademark to reinforce India's position as the top source of handmade carpets, while setting standards that would make sure that these products comply with quality benchmarks. The <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/politics/Smriti-Iranis-exit-from-HRD-ministry/articleshow/53265717.cms">textile ministry</a>, headed by <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/politics/These-are-the-possibilities-why-Smriti-Irani-was-removed-from-education-ministry/articleshow/53075294.cms">Smriti Z Irani</a>, is working on its plan to create a brand for Indian handmade carpets, like Australia's Woolmark, which guarantees the highest quality of wool. Also read: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/ByeByeSmriti-From-Text-to-Textiles-Twitter-is-trolling-Smriti-Irani-after-she-is-dropped-as-education-minister/articleshow/53079444.cms">ByeByeSmriti: From Text to Textiles, Twitter is trolling Smriti Irani after she is dropped as education minister</a> "We are working on a brand... a trademark that will ensure that the products comply with the standards set by the organisation," Mahavir Pratap Sharma, chairman, <keyword id="384466" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Carpet-Export-Promotion-Council">Carpet Export Promotion Council</keyword>, told <a href="http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/cons-products/garments-/-textiles/indian-handmade-carpets-may-get-government-trademark/articleshow/58231235.cms">ET</a>. "We will take two or three years to create parameters on turnover, employment and compliance with effluent treatment norms." India’s handmade rug exports industry stands at around Rs 9,000 crore and is 40% of the global contribution, with Iran, <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/topic/china">China</a>, and Nepal being the other key players. While Iran accounts for about 20-25% of total exports, China has about 20%, while Nepal has a 10% share. <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/topic/europe">Europe</a> and America, on the other hand, are the chief importers, and take almost 95% of the total imports. The council is also considering establishing training standards so that weavers can meet certification norms. "We want India's handmade carpets to become synchronous with the brand. We want to put it across that handmade carpets can be as per customers' choice, unlike machine-made rugs," he said. (Image source Discovering Chennai)

‘Achhe Din’ for carpet makers! Government planning standards and trademark for indigenous carpets

When we talk about big e-commerce companies, we think of the usual <keyword id="6354742" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Flipkart">Flipkart</keyword> and <keyword id="18635" type="CITY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Amazon">Amazon</keyword>, in India. While these companies were the ones that introduced the concept to urban Indians, little did they realize that next generation of online customers would need an e-commerce portal which could cater to their specific needs. 
 
<a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/i-stayed-at-tajs-first-property-in-amritsar-and-heres-what-i-experienced/articleshow/58028999.cms">ALSO READ: I Stayed at Taj's First Property in Amritsar and Here’s What I Experienced</a> 
 Shopclues is one e-tailer targeting Indians living in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, but <keyword id="2253218" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Voonik">Voonik</keyword> is trying to be the fashion destination for non-brand conscious Indians who prefer value for money. 
 
With a ‘lean’ marketplace business model operating without inventory and fulfillment centers, Voonik.com has entered the big picture delivering goods to consumers in over 28,000 pin codes all over the country. They have been a profitable forum for unbranded labels to compete with the big names in the online business and the start-up is also dynamically growing the networks in Handloom and Rural penetration. 
 
<a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/these-pc-games-earned-twice-as-much-as-console-games-according-to-appannie/articleshow/58030613.cms">ALSO READ: These PC games earned twice as much as console games according to AppAnnie</a> 
 Sujayath <keyword id="6400562" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ali">Ali</keyword> is the Co-Founder and CEO of Voonik, the leader in the unbranded fashion category with an annual GMV rate of over 120 Million USD. 
 
Rebranding the Unbranded 
 It has over 20 Million registered users, with 18 Million app downloads and Mr. Ali talked to <keyword id="824043" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Business-Insider">Business Insider</keyword> to give an insight about e-commerce that is not glitzy but practical,”We are very focused on the kind of people we want to attract. For an average Indian, fashion is practical and while they want to wear traditional garb, the definitely don’t want garbage. We have over 15 Lakh products from more than 25,000 sellers, from all parts of India. Our sellers are the masters of their craft; whether it is leather footwear from <keyword id="6356295" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Agra">Agra</keyword> or <keyword id="48523" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Silk">Silk</keyword> sarees from Chennai, we put retailers online.” 
 
<a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/now-you-can-own-a-versace-watch-at-inr-10000/articleshow/58029878.cms">ALSO READ: Now, You can Own a Versace Watch at INR 10,000</a> 
 
Voonik has built deep technology to enable personalization that made it the most engaging eCommerce app in India with you finding a lot of options in the same app. 
​ 
Ali sees the retail sector as a part of online commerce and that’s why Voonik is all-encompassing Indians at its core.

Exclusive: Voonik is Redefining Fashion E-commerce for Indian Masses

India is one of the youngest nations in the world with more than 54% of the total population below 25 years of age. Yet today less than 5% of the potential workforce gets formal skill training to be employable and stay employable. In order to generate employment, the <keyword id="6387077" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi-government">Narendra Modi government</keyword> has come up with initiatives like Make in India and Skill India. 
 It seems that these initiatives are paying off and creating job opportunities and scope for the development of the talented workforce in India. The country seems to have added more than double the number of <keyword id="11018" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jobs">jobs</keyword> between July and December 2014 as against the corresponding period of the previous year revealed in an Economic Times report. 
 
According to the ET report, a labour ministry survey, which was released on Wednesday, stated that 2.75 lakh jobs were created in eight key sectors during the six months, registering an increase of 118% over 1.26 lakh jobs created in the year-ago period. 
 
The survey further stated that the number of jobs created in the October-December quarter at 1.17 lakh was, however, less than 1.58 lakh jobs created in the previous quarter or 1.82 lakh jobs created in the April-June quarter. 
 To accelerate job creation in the country, one of the 10-point economic agenda of the <keyword id="1225747" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP-led-NDA-government">BJP-led NDA government</keyword>, the Centre set up a dedicated skill development ministry to focus on imparting skills to millions of youth in the country to make them employable. 
 It is estimated that 12 million youth enter the country's workforce each year and over 5% of this are <keyword id="78342" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Skilled-workforce">skilled workforce</keyword>. Rituparna Chakraborty, president of the <keyword id="807111" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-Staffing-Federation">Indian Staffing Federation</keyword>, said, "There is certainly an upswing in the number of jobs created in the country. But that is largely because of improvement in sentiments and the huge optimism around the initiatives of the new government. However, the real test is now and it is time that the government actually took steps to execute some of its labour related initiatives so as to sustain the momentum.” 
 
This survey covered 2,077 sample units across eight selected sectors that included apparels, leather, metals, automobiles, gems &amp; jewellery, transport, IT/BPO and handloom/powerloom. It also revealed, IT/BPOs led the sectors in job creation, with 89,000 new jobs, followed by 79,000 jobs created in textile and apparels and 1,000 in leather sector. 
 
The survey concluded, "While employment of direct workers went up by 1.01 lakh, hiring of contract workers was up by 16,000 during the quarter ended December, 2014 and a significant portion of the workforce were employed in units catering to the domestic market with employment in non-exporting units higher by 82,000 while number of people employed in exporting units up by 35,000 during the October-December quarter." 
(Image: www.lloydengg.com)

​Indian skilled workforce’s ‘Achche din’ have arrived

Srinagar, Jun 22 () To ensure business continuity amidst COVID-19 pandemic, the Handicrafts and Handloom department has urged exporters and businessmen from Jammu and Kashmir to participate in the virtual fairs being organised by Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) and Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC) in July and August this year. While EPCH is organising the 49th IHGF Delhi Fair, Virtual Edition from July 13 to July 18, the CEPC is holding India Carpet Expo, Virtual Exhibition from August 21 to August 25, an official spokesman said on Monday. The online registration for CEPC Virtual Fair shall close on June 30 and the EPCH has extended the date of filing online applications for interested participants from Jammu and Kashmir till June 26, which otherwise was closed, the spokesman said. "The virtual fairs shall provide a great opportunity to businessmen and exporters to sell their world-famous hand-made products made by the finest craftsmen from Jammu and Kashmir. Virtual trade shows seem to be the only viable solution and marketing tool available to both seller and buyer to meet and interact online, understand each other's requirements and keep the business going," he said. The exporters and businessmen belonging to handicrafts and handloom sector are facing stiff challenges to showcase their products, services and capabilities to potential buyers affecting their businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The spokesman said during 2019-20, J&amp;K exported handicraft products worth Rs 935.25 crore, thus generating a sizable foreign exchange. For the 49th IHGF Virtual Fair, EPCH is using technology that will make communication and transacting business between buyers and sellers a pleasurable experience in the age of social distancing, he said. EPCH is inviting overseas buyers representing chain of stores, retailers and e-commerce businesses to connect to the exquisite range of hand-made products being offered by exporters from all over the country. Similarly, for India Carpet Expo, Virtual Exhibition, CEPC aims to restart online business of handmade carpets to cater to the demand of the Indian handmade carpets post-pandemic. It will be the first of its kind initiative to bridge the gap between markets and demand of handmade carpets across the globe, he added. MIJ HDA

Amid COVID-19 crisis, opportunity for exporters in J&K to make use of virtual fairs

Coimbatore, Ace fashion designer <keyword id="15775" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="satya-paul">Satya Paul</keyword>, known for giving the Indian saree a contemporary touch, has passed away at the age of 79, his son <keyword id="124523" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Puneet-Nanda">Puneet Nanda</keyword> said. Paul, who had suffered a stroke in December, breathed his last at Sadhguru's <keyword id="746297" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Isha-Yoga-Center">Isha Yoga Center</keyword> on Wednesday. "He had a stroke on December 2 and as he was slowly recovering in the hospital, his <keyword id="10557792" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="only-wish">only wish</keyword> was to get all the things he was being monitored and poked with - removed so he could fly away. "We finally got clearance from doctors to take him back to Isha Yoga Center, his home since 2015. As per his wish, he gently passed on with blessings of the Master," Nanda wrote on Facebook. Nanda said though there's grief for his father's loss, the family is also celebrating the wholesome life the designer led. "He couldn't have had a sweeter life or passage, at the feet of the Master. We are sad a bit, mostly rejoicing him, his life and now his passing with such a blessing," Nanda wrote. Sadhguru, Founder-Isha Foundation, tweeted a picture of Paul to condole the demise of the "visionary" fashion designer. "Satya Paul, a shining example of what it means to live with immeasurable passion and unrelenting involvement. The distinct vision you brought to the Indian fashion industry is a beautiful tribute to this. A privilege to have had you amongst us. Condolences and blessings," Sadhguru tweeted. Paul started his <keyword id="6374782" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="journey">journey</keyword> in the field of retail in the late 60's and expanded to exports of Indian handloom products to high-end retail stores in Europe and America. In 1980, he launched the first 'saree boutique' in <keyword id="3658" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="India">India</keyword>, L'Affaire, and founded the eponymous fashion clothing brand with his son in 1986. The brand soon became synonymous for its sleek sarees. Nanda wrote that his father, more than a designer or entrepreneur, was a "seeker." "In the 70's his inner journey started with going to listen to talks with J Krishnamurty, later he took 'sannyas' (renunciation) from Osho. After Osho left in 1990, though he wasn't seeking another Master, he discovered Sadhguru in 2007. "He immediately started enjoying the path of yoga and eventually moved here in 2015. He has been a doorway for hundreds of people towards spirituality and all the Masters he was so blessed to have been with," he added. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/top-stocks-to-watch-tcs-ril-maruti-airtel-godrej-properties-oberoi-realty-sobha-and-others/articleshow/80145182.cms">Top stocks to watch — TCS, RIL, Maruti, Airtel, Godrej Properties, Oberoi Realty, Sobha, and others</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/ducati-is-launching-12-new-bikes-in-india-in-2021-check-the-launch-dates-here/articleshow/80146997.cms">From Scrambler and Multistrada to Monster and SuperSport — Ducati is launching 12 new bikes in India, check the launch dates here</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/petrol-has-reached-an-all-time-high-in-delhi-after-a-hike-of-23-paise/articleshow/80146505.cms">Petrol price is now past ₹84 in Delhi, over 62% of it is taxes</a>

Iconic fashion designer Satya Paul passes away at 79 in Coimbatore

Mumbai, Apr 21 () Tata Trusts, the oldest philanthropic organisation in the country, on Tuesday urged all to purchase products made by craftsmen, rather than donating money as charity.The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the heart of the handloom sector and it is "suffering terribly" under the countrywide lockdown, the Trusts, which own a majority stake in the diversified, over USD 100-billion conglomerate Tata Sons, said.The country has been under a lockdown since March 25, which is set to continue at least till May 3. It has stopped a bulk of the economic activity and is all set to impact all the sectors of the economy."Our artisans are enterprising and resilient and we need to stand by them in these trying times. None of us has ever witnessed a situation like the ongoing one, more so our brothers and sisters in the interior of India," head of craft at the trusts, Sharda Gautam, said."They do not need our charity. They need our reaffirmation in their art and craft and we can demonstrate this by continuing to purchase from them," she added.In a statement, the Trusts, which runs an initiative called 'Antaran' for the crafts sector, said the largedly self-employed craftsmen are suffering a brunt of the pandemic as they are dependent on seasonal retail sales and direct orders.As their activity is informal, the small artisans and producer groups lack access to financial assistance and cannot rely on financial institutions to tide them through such a crisis. A lack of credit from raw material suppliers aggravates the challenges, it said, adding that although the Indian government is supplying free food rations most of the artisans, especially daily wagers are finding it extremely difficult to feed their families and cater to other emergencies.Antaran is focusing on four handloom clusters in Assam (Kamrup cotton and Eri silk), Nagaland (Dimapur and Phek, backstrap loom textiles), Andhra Pradesh (Venkatgiri - fine cotton and silk weave embellished with Jamdani, Zari) and Odisha (Maniabandha weft Ikat in fine cotton, silk &amp; Gopalpur weaves in Ghicha and Tussar), it said.The team is trying to make the most of the lockdown and encouraging the "artisan entrepreneurs" to rethink a new direction and interpretation for the weaves of their clusters, it said, adding they are showing keen interest in the same.In order to become independent brand owners, the artisans are also consolidating their business, improving their product catalogue, re-organizing inventory of raw material and finished products, it said. AA MKJMKJ

Purchase products made by artisans rather than donating money to them: Tata Trusts urges people

<ul><li>The United States of America decided to withdraw 50 Indian items from duty free benefits. They will now be imported with regular US tariff norms. </li><li>The US-<keyword id="3658" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="India">India</keyword> trade war is likely to hit small and medium-sized businesses in India which are mainly dependent on exports for revenue. </li><li>The decision came in after India announced a hike on custom duties on 29 American products. </li><li>President Trump also commented on India being ‘tariff king’ to signify sour trade relations between the two countries. </li></ul>India’s souring trade relations with the United States took a new turn when the US government decided to revoke duty free privileges on the import of as many as 50 Indian products. The decision came in after India decided to hike the custom duty levied on 29 American products. Surprisingly though, India has been continuously extending the deadlines for the imposition of these the higher duties. In fact, the <a href="https://www.livemint.com/Politics/r5E40dX6oNx5zKJoaukqoL/Govt-delays-imposition-of-retaliatory-tariffs-on-US-goods-ti.html">Finance Ministry</a> recently decided to advance the deadline for the third time in a row by another 45 days till 17 December. Citing section 503(c)(2)(A) of US’ 1974 Act, President <keyword id="6354484" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Donald-Trump">Donald Trump</keyword> proclaimed that ‘certain beneficiary developing countries’ have overused the benefits of the Generalised System of Preferences (<keyword id="340326" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="GSP">GSP</keyword>) in the previous year by crossing the competitive-need limitations. In a proclamation issued by White House, Trump <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/presidential-proclamation-modify-list-products-eligible-duty-free-treatment-generalized-system-preferences/">stated</a> that he may withdraw, suspend or limit the application of the duty free treatment that is accorded to specified articles under the GSP when imported from designated beneficiary developing countries. Indian items pulled out of GSP benefits The list of items withdrawn from tariff-free provisions mainly includes agricultural and handloom goods like areca nuts, processed mangoes, sandstones, leather from buffalo skin, plain weave handloom cotton fabric over a weight of 85 per cotton, carpets and textile floor covers. The imposition of tariffs basically means that it’s going to be more expensive to export them to the US. And, since it will be more expensive, the prices of those products will increase since the trader will shift the burden of the tax onto the consumer. So, if we follow the basic principles of demand and supply, with the commodities getting more expensive, it’s likely that their demand will fall negatively impacting India’s outgoing trade. Impact on India’s small and medium-sized businesses The US was providing India benefits worth $70 million with its GSP - which gives exclusive provisions to export tariff-free products in the United States. Imposition of regular US tariffs on Indian products is likely to <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/india-to-raise-duties-on-29-goods-from-us/articleshow/64690730.cms">impact</a> the small and medium-sized business (SMEs) which are dependent on exports. Particularly, Indian handloom and agricultural sectors may have to look for other options to boost exports once tariffs are imposed on their product. It’s not India’s going to stop exporting these products altogether but having to bear regular tariffs which will directly impact export volumes. That being said, an Indian official has <a href="https://www.livemint.com/Politics/GyKMFDPJXeDL0iF9d7wosK/US-revokes-dutyfree-privileges-on-import-of-90-Indian-produ.html">claimed</a> that these products are not a major part of India’s total export, which is worth $5.6 billion, and thereby will not impact the Indian economy much. US-India’s tangled trade relations US and India have been going through a rough phase since the Trump government came into power. Earlier this year, India announced plans to increase the tariff on 29 American goods - mainly nuts, apples and finished metal - as a counter-attack on Trump’s move to increase taxes levied on the import of steel and aluminium. Mis-stating India’s tariff system, Trump called India ‘<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/world-bank-contradicts-trumps-comment-over-higher-tariffs-imposed-by-india-on-american-goods/articleshow/66463430.cms">tariff king</a>’ for levying higher import duties on several American products. The US has also been mulling over penalising India for breaching its call to bring Iranian oil export to zero. Apart from this, India’s recent<a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-and-russia-to-sign-over-7-billion-defence-deals/articleshow/66077335.cms"> $7 billion defence deal</a> with Russia has put the US on the offensive raising a lot of questions on how the two countries are going to work out their trade relations in the future.

You Searched For "Indian handloom" and got 13 results

Fabric of a nation: Sustaining India's handloom legacy in modern times

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Indian textile exports surge by 9.59% in May despite global economic challenges

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Indian exports show resilience amid global challenges in first quarter, says CRISIL report

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Flipkart partners Gujarat State Handloom, Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd

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‘Achhe Din’ for carpet makers! Government planning standards and trademark for indigenous carpets

BI India Bureau

Exclusive: Voonik is Redefining Fashion E-commerce for Indian Masses

Tanya Dubey

Indian skilled workforce’s ‘Achche din’ have arrived

BI India Bureau

Amid COVID-19 crisis, opportunity for exporters in J&K to make use of virtual fairs

PTI

Iconic fashion designer Satya Paul passes away at 79 in Coimbatore

PTI

Purchase products made by artisans rather than donating money to them: Tata Trusts urges people

PTI

India won’t be getting duty free privileges on 50 products in the US

BI India Bureau

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You Searched For "Indian handloom" and got 13 results

Fabric of a nation: Sustaining India's handloom legacy in modern times

Prerna Tyagi

500 saree clad women to take part in a London walkathon to promote handlooms

IANS

Tarun Tahiliani at centre of controversy over "mediocre" designs for Indian contingent at Olympics

PTI

Indian textile exports surge by 9.59% in May despite global economic challenges

ANI

Indian exports show resilience amid global challenges in first quarter, says CRISIL report

ANI

Flipkart partners Gujarat State Handloom, Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd

PTI

‘Achhe Din’ for carpet makers! Government planning standards and trademark for indigenous carpets

BI India Bureau

Exclusive: Voonik is Redefining Fashion E-commerce for Indian Masses

Tanya Dubey

​Indian skilled workforce’s ‘Achche din’ have arrived

BI India Bureau

Amid COVID-19 crisis, opportunity for exporters in J&K to make use of virtual fairs

PTI

Iconic fashion designer Satya Paul passes away at 79 in Coimbatore

PTI

Purchase products made by artisans rather than donating money to them: Tata Trusts urges people

PTI

India won’t be getting duty free privileges on 50 products in the US

BI India Bureau

Popular Keywords

Buying Guides

Indian skilled workforce’s ‘Achche din’ have arrived