Awareness campaign on Vocal For Local - Dying Handloom Industry of West Bengal

On May 23, 2023, the students of the Department of B.Ed., Loreto College, Kolkata, organized an awareness campaign on the current state of the handloom industry in West Bengal. The campaign intended to prioritize local handloom products made painstakingly by weavers and artisans. The emphasis on ‘Vocal for Local’ and the idea of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ stems from the desire to promote indigenous industries, stimulate economic growth, and lessen reliance on imports. The campaign aimed to create a sustainable and self-sufficient ecosystem that could withstand global uncertainties. The handloom sector is an indispensable contributor to employment generation in India. Therefore, it requires civic support at the grassroots level.

The B.Ed. students highlighted the history of the handloom industry in India and its evolution over the last four decades. Primary importance was given to the state of West Bengal and its handloom industry, a treasure trove of rich heritage and skilled craftsmanship. The campaign was based on the primary field studies conducted by the students on the weavers of Phulia (Santipur, Nadia) and on Tantuja (The West Bengal State Handloom Weavers Co-operative Society Ltd.). Both studies focused on working conditions, the standard of living of the weavers, the marketing strategies used to promote their products, and the eco-friendliness of these products.

The studies helped the B.Ed. students to understand the challenges faced by the handloom industry and also revealed its potential to act as the main market player. The campaign linked the case studies with the G20 goals to promote sustainable development and eco-efficiency. It is important to promote the handloom industry to preserve traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage and ensure stable livelihoods for skilled artisans and weavers. Handloom production fosters sustainability as it utilizes natural fibres and reduces carbon footprint. Additionally, the handloom sector helps to boost the local economy and tourism.

By supporting West Bengal’s handloom industries, we not only contribute to the socio-economic development of the region but also celebrate the beauty and craftsmanship embedded in these heritage textiles. The campaign ended with the B.Ed. students presenting the slogan: “Bengal’s Handloom – Keep the passion alive, wear with pride.”