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India marked the 12th National Handloom Day on Aug. 7, 2026, with a nationwide focus on preserving traditional weaving practices, supporting artisans and expanding opportunities through technology, innovation and market access. The celebrations in New Delhi highlighted India’s handloom diversity, artisan achievements and the role of young entrepreneurs in shaping the future of the textile sector.

The events included the presentation of national awards for handloom excellence, recognition of tribal textile traditions and discussions on connecting traditional craftsmanship with modern markets.

President Droupadi Murmu Recognizes Handloom Excellence And Technology’s Role

President Droupadi Murmu presented the Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and National Handloom Awards 2025 during a ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi.

The President conferred three Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and 19 National Handloom Awards to recognize weavers for exceptional craftsmanship, innovation and contributions to preserving India’s textile traditions.

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Addressing the gathering, President Murmu said handloom has been an important part of India’s cultural journey for centuries and reflects the country’s regional diversity. She highlighted the sector’s contribution to employment, women’s participation, cultural preservation and sustainable practices.

The President emphasized that the adoption of appropriate technologies can support the sustainable development of the handloom sector. She noted that digital platforms and modern solutions can improve market access and create new opportunities for artisans and young entrepreneurs.

The ceremony also included the release of four commemorative postage stamps on Indian handloom weaves and the publication “Earth. Root. Thread – Aal Dyed Handloom Textiles of Central India.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Highlights Heritage, Innovation And Youth Participation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared an article by Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh on National Handloom Day, highlighting the importance of India’s textile traditions and regional weaving practices.

The article emphasized combining heritage with technology, creativity and entrepreneurship to support the future growth of the handloom sector and strengthen artisan livelihoods.

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Union Minister Giriraj Singh said policy support, skill development, design innovation, technology adoption and improved market promotion remain important areas for strengthening the handloom ecosystem.

The National Handloom Day celebrations also featured exhibitions of award-winning handloom products and demonstrations of traditional weaving techniques, including Kani weaving and wall hanging crafts.

Tribal Weaves Of India Showcase Indigenous Textile Heritage Through RISA

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) organized “Tribal Weaves of India” in New Delhi as part of National Handloom Day celebrations.

The event showcased tribal textile traditions through the RISA: Timeless Tribal initiative, which focuses on preserving indigenous crafts while improving market opportunities for tribal artisans.

Officials highlighted the importance of stronger market connections, sustainable livelihoods and wider recognition for tribal weaving traditions.

The exhibition featured GI-tagged textiles including Kotpad Cotton, Tussar Silk, Eri Silk, Muga Silk, Toda embroidery and Dongria embroidery. It also displayed handicrafts such as Longpi Pottery, Warli Art and Dokra Art.

National Handloom Day is observed every year on Aug. 7 to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement launched in 1905. Since its official observance began in 2015, the day has recognized the contribution of handloom workers to India’s cultural heritage, employment generation and sustainable development.