Ministry of Textiles Eyes Export Boom for Northeast's Artisans with Holistic 5F Vision

Guwahati: The Ministry of Textiles is stepping forward to modernize traditional weaving practices in the Northeast, connect artisans to global markets, and tackle challenges such as counterfeit goods. With the government aiming to double employment in the textile sector by 2030, the spotlight is on the Northeastern region's critical role in achieving these goals. Northeast will emerge as a key player in India's USD 350 billion textile market target by 2030.

In an exclusive conversation with Pankhi Sarma of Business North East (BNE), Union Minister of State for External Affairs & Textiles Pabitra Margherita spoke about the focused initiatives taken to empower the weavers and artisans of the Northeast. Being a national hub for handlooms and handicrafts, Northeast's heritage is woven into the fabric of the nation's identity.

"The Northeast holds unmatched potential in India's textile landscape," Pabitra Margherita said during the BNE interview. 

Margherita highlighted the upcoming BharatTEX 2025, a massive international trade event featuring over 6,000 buyers and 5,000 producers, which aims to amplify the export potential of the region's prized textiles, including the globally renowned Eri and Muga silk.

Here are the excerpts from the Q&A interview:

BNE: Could you elaborate on how the Ministry of Textiles is empowering rural weavers and facilitating their connection to broader markets?

Pabitra Margherita: I am delighted to highlight that Northeast India occupies a special place in the nation as the region with the greatest concentration of handlooms, weavers, and craftsmen working in the handicraft and handloom production industries. The Ministry of Textiles prioritizes empowering rural weavers. Although weavers in the Northeast are exceptionally skilled, sometimes they do not have access to contemporary tools or bigger marketplaces.

The Northeast has the most handlooms and artisan clusters in the nation, according to the Ministry's statement when I brought up this subject in the Rajya Sabha. This highlights the area's importance as a centre of talent and innovation. Even Mahatma Gandhi acknowledged the exceptional skill of Assamese weavers, claiming that they could "weave dreams on fabric." Our artists craft products that reflect creative brilliance and celebrate cultural pride to uphold this tradition.

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Both Union and state governments are collaborating to promote and grow this industry. Among the major initiatives are:

• Skill Development Programs: We have introduced several upskilling programs to enhance the technical capabilities of weavers and artisans. This enables them to improve the quality of their products and adapt to contemporary market demands.
• Market Linkages: Efforts are being made to connect rural weavers with national and international markets. By providing platforms at high-profile trade fairs and exhibitions, we ensure their products gain visibility among global buyers.
• Modernized Equipment and Subsidies: Subsidized raw materials, modern handlooms, and other essential resources are being provided by the government to artisans to enhance productivity. 

By taking these steps, we hope to ensure steady growth by incorporating the Northeast's traditional talents into the global market.

BNE: How does the state plan to maximize the region's export potential, particularly in textiles?

Pabitra Margherita: The Northeast plays an integral part in India's textile exports, and the government has taken several actions to increase its visibility internationally. The region's abundant biodiversity provides special raw resources, including Assamese-only and internationally recognized Eri and Muga silk. For example:

• Export Promotion Meets: We are actively involved with initiatives like the 3rd Export Promotion Meet organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce. These events create direct business opportunities by connecting producers and potential buyers.
• International Trade Events: In February 2025, the Ministry of Textiles, in collaboration with industry stakeholders, will organize BharatTEX 2025. This event is one of the largest global platforms for textiles and will feature:

We aim to connect domestic producers with international buyers and expand their market reach through such events. 

Moreover, the '5F' vision - Farm to Fiber to Factory to Fashion to Foreign - is a holistic approach to strengthening the textile value chain. 

1. Farm to Fiber: Engaging farmers who produce raw materials such as cotton, jute, and other natural fibres.
2. Fibre to Factory: Supporting the conversion of raw materials into fibres and subsequently into finished products.
3. Factory to Fashion: Encouraging value addition by creating fashionable and technical textiles.
4. Fashion to Foreign: Ensuring these products reach international markets.

This integrated approach ensures that every stakeholder in the textile value chain - from farmers to exporters - benefits from government efforts.

India’s textile market currently stands at USD 176 billion. Our vision is to grow to USD 350 billion by 2030. The sector already employs 4.6 crore people, and we aim to double employment opportunities by 2030. This ambitious target underscores the government's commitment to making India a global leader in textiles.

BNE: There have been concerns about the entry of synthetic Gamusas into the market. How is the government addressing this issue?

Pabitra Margherita: The Assamese 'Gamusa' is more than simply a piece of fabric. It represents our weavers' labour, pride in our culture, and legacy. Every 'Gamusa' has a unique tale, weaved with passion, skill, and love. The government has taken several actions to safeguard its legitimacy:

• Geographical Indication (GI) Tags: Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, we secured GI tags for iconic products such as the 'Gamusa' and 'Mekhela Sador' of the Assamese people. This ensures that only authentic products crafted by certified artisans can be marketed under these names.
• Strict Enforcement: Both central and state governments have implemented measures to prevent the production and sale of counterfeit or synthetic 'Gamusas.' These regulations are enforced rigorously to safeguard the livelihoods of genuine weavers.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: While government intervention is essential, public cooperation is equally important. I appeal to people to refrain from buying counterfeit 'Gamusas' and instead support authentic, handmade products.

'Gamusa' is a cultural emblem of Assam. We honour the traditions and stories woven into its fabric by respecting its authenticity.

                       An artisan weaving gamusa, showcasing the Northeast’s rich handloom tradition (Google image)

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BNE: Could you share some insights into the state's efforts to promote employment in the textile sector?

Pabitra Margherita: The textile sector is already one of the largest employers in the country, engaging 4.6 crore people. Our goal is to double this by 2030. Key efforts include:

1. Skill Development Programs: We are introducing large-scale training programs to equip workers with modern skills, enabling them to access better job opportunities.
   Cluster Development: By developing textile clusters in the Northeast and other regions, we are creating localized hubs of employment and entrepreneurship.
2. Incentives for Startups and MSMEs: The government has extended financial and technical assistance to startups and small businesses in the textile industry to encourage innovation and job creation.

These measures ensure economic growth and inclusive development by creating livelihood opportunities for millions.