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Source- This post on “VIRAASAT” Exhibition has been created based on the article “VIRAASAT”, an exhibition to celebrate 10th National Handloom Day begins at Handloom Haat, New Delhi” published in PIB on 5 August 2024.
Why in News?
Recently, “VIRAASAT” exhibition was held at Handloom Haat in Janpath on 3rd August, 2024.
About “VIRAASAT” Exhibition
1. About: “VIRAASAT” is a fortnight-long exhibition dedicated to celebrating the 10th National Handloom Day, began at Handloom Haat in Janpath, New Delhi, on Saturday, 3rd August 2024.
2. Organised by: The event was organized by the National Handloom Development Corporation Ltd (NHDC) under the aegis of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, will conclude on 16th August 2024.
3. Purpose and Focus: The exhibition aims to celebrate the rich tradition of handloom and handicrafts in India and to provide a platform for handloom weavers and artisans to connect with buyers.
4. The exhibition features popular handloom varieties such as Banarasi, Jamdani, Baluchari, Madhubani, Kosa, Ikkat, Patola, Tussar Silk, Maheshwari, Moirang Phee, Phulkari, Laheriya, Khandua, and Tangaliya. These products attract customers worldwide with their exclusive weaves, designs, and traditional motifs.
5. Historical Context: The Swadeshi Movement was launched on 7th August 1905, promoted indigenous industries, particularly handloom weaving. Since 2015, the Government of India has commemorated 7th August every year as National Handloom Day to honor this tradition.
6. Significance of National Handloom Day: The first National Handloom Day was celebrated on 7th August 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Chennai. This day highlights the socio-economic contribution of the handloom sector and reaffirms the Government’s resolve to protect handloom heritage and empower weavers with better opportunities.
Handloom Sector in India
i) The handloom sector directly or indirectly employs 35 lakh people, making it the second-largest employment sector in India after agriculture.
ii) This sector represents India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, with traditional values and unique regional varieties.
iii) Government Initiatives: The Government of India has launched various schemes to brand high-quality handloom products with zero defects and zero environmental impact.
These initiatives ensure the products are genuinely handcrafted and provide a guarantee for buyers.
UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy
