The handloom sector is getting a push as many designers and brands are launching handwoven lines, and to give credit to the weavers, the central government is thinking of revising a agrication model, says Handloom Development Commissioner Alok Kumar.
Handloom is in the forefront of the fashion scene. Considering that, how have situations changed for weavers in today’s time’
Kumar told IANS: “There are two aspects. First is the demand and supply so, if there is a good demand, supplier will get a good price.”
“Secondly, I had a meeting with the Cloth Manufacturing Association of India in Mumbai and they have asked us to revise a model for agrication as it’s difficult for reputed brands to go from cottage to cottage. So, we are working on that model.”
“Some credible government agencies can provide that platform as it will benefit weavers. This whole approach of Ministry of Textiles is to connect producers directly with the final buyers,” he added.
Kumar was in the capital at the launch of Peter England handloom wear line for men. The menswear brand from the house of Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd (ABFRIL) announced the strategic collaboration with the central government’s Handloom Brand to work together to promote the handloom industry in the country.
He says that many brands are opting for handloom line and this is a good move.
“On August 7, which we celebrate as National Handloom Day, we did an activity with around 10 reputed brands which are into garments manufacturing. They went to Benaras and made a public announcement of association with textiles.”
“We did it with Biba, Allen Solly and many other brands. ColourPlus is in the pipeline and Reliance Trends has also shown interest. So, we hope that by next year, a lot of reputed brands become bulk buyers of handloom fabrics,” he said.
