NABARD Celebrates National Handloom Day in Mandi to Boost Local Artisans

NABARD celebrated National Handloom Day in Mandi, bringing together over 130 weavers and artisans to promote the region's rich handloom heritage. The event featured an exhibition showcasing traditional textiles and crafts, along with workshops aimed at preserving weaving techniques and enhancing market access. Participants engaged in discussions on product diversification and sustainable livelihoods. Additionally, competitions for students highlighted the importance of creativity in preserving cultural traditions. The event underscored NABARD's commitment to supporting rural artisans and fostering innovation in traditional crafts.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 7, 2026, 16:39 IST

Celebration of Handloom Heritage

On Thursday, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) hosted a state-level event in Mandi to commemorate National Handloom Day. This gathering attracted approximately 130 weavers, artisans, and stakeholders from Himachal Pradesh, aiming to highlight the state's vibrant handloom tradition and enhance livelihood prospects for rural craftsmen.

The event took place at Seri Manch and was inaugurated by Divisional Commissioner Dr. R.K. Pruthi, with Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan serving as the guest of honour. The programme was presided over by Dr. Vivek Pathania, Chief General Manager of NABARD Himachal Pradesh.

The festivities commenced with the opening of an exhibition-cum-sale that featured traditional handloom textiles, handicrafts, and rural products. Fifteen stalls were set up by weavers, producer organizations, and self-help groups, showcasing a diverse array of locally crafted items, including a special Khadi stall that celebrated India's weaving heritage.

During the exhibition, NABARD officials provided insights to the dignitaries regarding the bank's efforts to bolster the handloom sector, support rural artisans, and enhance market access for traditional goods.

Following the exhibition, a workshop was held at Hotel Raj Mahal, where participants engaged in discussions on preserving traditional weaving techniques while exploring product diversification, branding, value addition, market linkages, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Nearly 130 weavers from Mandi and surrounding districts attended the workshop.

In addition to the main event, NABARD organized essay writing and painting competitions for students at Kendriya Vidyalaya, Mandi, on August 6. Approximately 50 students took part, with winners receiving cash prizes of ₹3,000, ₹2,000, and ₹1,000, along with certificates and mementoes.

The programme also recognized several veteran handloom artisans for their dedication to maintaining the state's traditional crafts. Noted weaver and Nari Shakti Award recipient Anshul Malhotra shared her entrepreneurial experiences, inspiring young artisans to innovate while upholding traditional skills.

Dr. Vivek Pathania addressed the audience, emphasizing NABARD's ongoing commitment to the handloom sector through initiatives like the Saroa Handloom Producer Company. He underscored the importance of preserving traditional weaving methods, encouraging youth participation, and creating sustainable employment and self-employment opportunities in rural areas through the promotion of handloom and handicrafts.