Guwahati: Guwahati witnessed a vibrant celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, as the Central Silk Board (CSB), Muga Eri Silkworm Seed Organization, and Silk Mark Organization of India hosted a special event dedicated to recognizing the immense contributions of women in the sericulture and handloom industries.
Bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, including weavers, social activists, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, the event underscored the critical role of women in preserving India’s rich textile traditions while driving economic and social empowerment.
The Central Silk Board, a key institution in India’s silk industry, has been at the forefront of initiatives that provide technical, financial, and policy support to silk farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs. Over the years, its programs have strengthened the sector by promoting silk farming, expanding raw silk production, and enhancing research and innovation to improve productivity and sustainability. The CSB has also played a vital role in market linkages and export facilitation, ensuring that traditional silk products maintain their authenticity and demand in both domestic and global markets. By implementing skill development and financial aid schemes for women weavers, the organization has empowered thousands of artisans, allowing them to sustain their livelihoods and carry forward their ancestral craftsmanship.
A significant discussion during the event revolved around the growing threat posed by cheap powerloom products, which have flooded the market, drastically impacting the wages and market access of traditional handloom artisans. Experts and industry leaders called for a ban on low-cost machine-made textiles, highlighting the urgent need for government intervention to protect handloom weavers and ensure fair-trade policies. Participants also emphasized the importance of equipping artisans with modern tools to blend innovation with traditional weaving techniques, making their craft more sustainable in a competitive market. To encourage young entrepreneurs, the event proposed skill-building workshops on sustainable weaving practices, digital marketing strategies, and financial assistance programs, aimed at fostering new-age business models for artisans.
The celebration was further enriched with cultural performances that showcased Assam’s textile and artistic heritage, reinforcing the deep connection between weaving and the state’s identity. Among the distinguished speakers were activist Monmoromi Mahanta, advocate Nandita Deka, entrepreneur Manashmita Hazarika, and scientists from the Central Silk Board, including Dr Lopamudra Guha, Dr Hridya H, Dr Suraksha, and Dr Karshnal J. Industry experts, including Smt Priyanka Devi, Smt Bulumoni Saikia, and Smt Bina Kalita, also shared insights on policy reforms and sustainable growth strategies for the sector.
Under the theme “For All Women & Girls: Rights, Equality & Empowerment,” the event served as a powerful tribute to the resilience and contributions of women artisans. As the discussions concluded, organizers and participants reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that India’s handloom heritage continues to thrive, while creating economic opportunities and a sustainable future for the next generation of women weavers.
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