Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 09 August 2025
In observance of National Handloom Day, celebrated annually on August 7 to honour the Swadeshi Movement and the invaluable contribution of handloom weavers to India’s socio-economic fabric, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Khadi and Village Industries Board (ANI KVIB) organized a special programme at Tagore Government College of Education (TGCE), Sri Vijaya Puram.
The event aimed to promote handloom and instill the ‘Khadi spirit’ among the youth, particularly college students. Over 120 students participated in the programme, which was graced by Ms. Manjulata Rao, Principal of TGCE, as the chief guest, and Ms. Sunita Kumari, Deputy Director of the Industries Department, as the guest of honour.
In her keynote address, Ms. Rao highlighted the importance of handloom as a pillar of rural livelihoods in the Islands and encouraged students to become advocates for sustainable economic growth by supporting handloom products.
Ms. Kumari underscored the cultural and historical significance of handloom, emphasizing its role in shaping India’s global identity and inspiring the youth to cherish and uphold this legacy.
The Executive Officer of ANI KVIB also addressed the gathering, elaborating on the relevance of National Handloom Day.
The programme included an educational presentation explaining the intricate processes involved in handloom fabric production. An exhibition showcasing traditional weaving skills alongside a diverse collection of Khadi fabrics and apparel captivated the attendees, highlighting handloom as more than just fabric — a symbol of national pride, self-reliance, and sustainable living.
The celebration successfully heightened awareness among the students, motivating them to embrace and promote the rich heritage of handloom weaving.
