UPIDR and MSME Organize Industrial Tour to Promote Handloom Sector
In a significant initiative to promote India’s traditional weaving industry, 65 students and professors from Lucknow University, accompanied by Hon’ble Chairman, Uttar Pradesh Institute of Design and Research (UPIDR), Mrs. Kshipra Shukla, visited Ansar Handloom (Mohd. Zafar) in Zaidpur, Barabanki district. The visit, organized by UPIDR and MSME, aimed to provide hands-on learning about handloom and powerloom stole weaving techniques.
Hands-On Experience in Traditional Stole Weaving
During the tour, students witnessed the entire stole-making process, from yarn preparation and dyeing to intricate designing and final weaving on both handloom and powerloom machines. Master weaver Mohd. Zafar demonstrated each step, allowing students to experience the craftsmanship and precision required in stole production.
National Handloom Day Awareness
Officials from NABARD highlighted that the Government of India declared 7th August as National Handloom Day in 2015, emphasizing the importance of handloom in India’s heritage and economy. The upcoming celebration will focus on encouraging youth to preserve and promote this traditional craft.
Promoting Design and Entrepreneurship
Mrs. Kshipra Shukla stated,
“The handloom industry of Uttar Pradesh is a symbol of our cultural heritage. Industrial tours like this not only offer practical knowledge to students but also inspire future entrepreneurs and designers to contribute to the sector’s growth.”
Strengthening the Handloom Ecosystem
The initiative is expected to strengthen the handloom and textile ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh, fostering collaboration between academic institutions, artisans, and government bodies. Students expressed enthusiasm about learning directly from skilled artisans and understanding the challenges and opportunities in the handloom industry.