Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on 7 August 2025 spotlighted the state's handloom sector, revealing that over 32,000 weavers — the majority of them women — depend on the craft for their livelihoods. Speaking at the inaugural function of the 12th National Handloom Day celebrations at the DK Convention Centre, Itanagar, Khandu reaffirmed the state government's commitment to converting Arunachal's weaving heritage into a commercially viable economic force.

Scale and Significance of the Sector

The Chief Minister described handloom as far more than an occupation, calling it the cultural identity and living heritage of the state's indigenous tribes. 'Every woven fabric of Arunachal tells the story of our people, our traditions and our identity. Our handloom sector has the potential to become a major driver of rural livelihoods, women empowerment and sustainable economic growth,' he said.

The three-day celebration, now in its twelfth edition, brought together ministers, legislators, senior officials, master weavers, artisans, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and private stakeholders from across the state.

Government Initiatives and Infrastructure Push

Khandu outlined several ongoing interventions: the establishment of Common Facility Centres (CFCs), upgrades to weaving infrastructure, and the introduction of modern equipment designed to boost productivity without diluting the authenticity of traditional designs. Weavers are also receiving training in contemporary design techniques, natural dyeing, quality improvement and product diversification to help them compete in national and international markets.

He noted that both state and Central government schemes are channelling financial assistance, raw materials, modern looms and marketing support to weavers and artisan groups across the state. Young entrepreneurs were urged to tap opportunities in the sector by combining traditional craftsmanship with digital marketing and e-commerce platforms.

GI Tags and Market Access

A key focus of the Chief Minister's address was Geographical Indication (GI) registration for Arunachal's indigenous textile products. Khandu said several traditional textiles have either secured or are in the process of securing GI tags, which would authenticate products, protect traditional knowledge and command premium prices in both domestic and international markets — while preventing imitation of indigenous designs.

He stressed the need for innovation that does not compromise the originality of tribal designs, arguing that value addition and quality enhancement are the route to premium market access.

Sericulture as a Growth Lever

Khandu also highlighted the untapped potential of sericulture, describing it as a natural complement to the handloom ecosystem. Arunachal Pradesh's favourable climate, he noted, positions the state as one of the few regions in India capable of producing all four commercially important varieties of silk — Eri, Muga, Mulberry and Oak Tasar. Strengthening the full sericulture value chain — from host plant cultivation and silkworm rearing to reeling, spinning and weaving — would, according to the Chief Minister, raise rural incomes while supplying quality raw material to the growing handloom industry.

Key Launches at the Event

As part of the inaugural programme, Khandu launched the Department of Textiles and Handicrafts website and an Artisan Data Bank, along with Atii – Arunachal Honey. He felicitated outstanding weavers and artisans, and distributed SAMARTH certificates and Yarn Pass Books to support and empower artisans across the state.

With GI tagging, digital outreach and sericulture integration now on the agenda, the next phase will test whether these policy commitments translate into measurable income gains for Arunachal's weaving communities.