Experts on Assam handloom

Experts in Assam stress on developing the vital handloom and handicraft sector of the state.

With its tremendous market potential, experts in Assam feel there is an urgent need to develop the handicraft and handloom sector through improved designs, better manufacturing techniques and enhanced quality to enable it to compete with the overseas market as also to generate employment.

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In a report submitted to the state government, its financial advisor and noted economist Dr Jayanta Madhab says there is vast scope to generate employment and additional income for more than 50,000 weavers and artisans by boosting the sector.

Handloom and handicrafts have been an integral part of Assamese culture and economic activity for ages and the sector is the second largest employer in the state after agriculture with over 40 lakh people partially or wholly associated for their livelihood.

The market, Madhab says, for most traditional products largely exists within the state, but handloom and handicraft works are increasingly becoming popular throughout the country as well as overseas.

The potential is there to stimulate demand which requires improved designs, better manufacturing techniques and an increase in mechanisation in order to bring down unit costs and enhance quality levels to those prevailing in China and Southeast Asia, Madhab says.