Government of Assam to procure handloom items directly from weavers for sale across the country

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• Jul 20, 2022 | Poonam Nath

Following procurement, products will be sold through government outlets in Assam and other states.

Digital Desk: The Assam government launched the 'Swanirbhar Naari' scheme on Tuesday, under which textile items will be purchased directly from weavers and sold through government outlets throughout the state and the country.

In Guwahati, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched 'Swanirbhar Naari,' a handloom and textiles department initiative aimed at empowering indigenous weavers in the state and providing financial support to weavers' families.

According to an official statement, "The government has decided to purchase handloom items directly from indigenous weavers through a specially developed Swanirbhar Naari web portal, eliminating the need for middlemen. In total, 31 hand-woven textile items from various communities in the state have been covered by the scheme."

Following procurement, products will be sold through government outlets in Assam and other states, such as Jagaran and Pragjyotika. 

"The online registration is intended to reach areas where departmental yarn banks are unavailable. The portal is expected to bridge the gap between the weavers and the buyers, "It stated.

According to Chief Minister Sarma, Assam's handloom and textile industries have a long history and have contributed significantly to the state's economy. 

Sarma added, "The textiles of different ethnic groups have enriched this, and Assam's handloom and textile sector reflects the state's civilisation and cultural heritage."

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