Tripura University hosts 12th National Handloom Week; Students urged to explore heritage & entrepreneurship

The 12th National Handloom Week was marked at Tripura University on Tuesday with a programme that placed India’s textile heritage at the centre of discussion, while also highlighting the employment and entrepreneurial opportunities available in the sector.

Organised by the Weavers’ Service Centre, Agartala under the Ministry of Textiles, the event was held at the Conference Hall of Pariksha Bhawan. 

Tripura University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Debabrata Das, Registrar Samir Kumar Shil, and Ajit Sukla Das, IAS, Additional Secretary and Director of the Directorate of Handloom, Handicraft & Sericulture, were among the dignitaries present.

Speakers underscored the role of Weavers’ Service Centres in preserving traditional craftsmanship while modernising the sector. Since its launch in 2015, the initiative has expanded to 29 centres nationwide, conducting awareness drives in universities, schools and clusters. Officials urged students to see the handloom industry not only as a cultural responsibility but also as a promising avenue for entrepreneurship and income generation, capable of taking Indian textiles to global markets.

A quiz competition on handlooms and handicrafts added an interactive element, with students displaying impressive knowledge of India’s textile traditions.

The programme also showcased flagship schemes of the Development Commissioner (Handlooms), including: Cluster Development Project – financial assistance up to Rs 2 crore per cluster. India Handloom Brand – promoting high-quality handloom products with environmental standards. Handloom Mark – assuring consumers of authenticity. Weavers MUDRA Scheme – concessional credit for working capital and term loans. E-Dhaga application – digital access to yarn supply services.

Organisers thanked Tripura University authorities for their support and stressed the importance of preserving traditional craftsmanship while creating sustainable livelihoods for artisans.