VIRAASAT

About VIRAASAT

• The Viraasat Sari Festival is an annual event to celebrate and promote the rich heritage of handloom saris from various regions of the country. 
• Organizer: National Handloom Development Corporation Ltd (NHDC) under the Ministry of Textiles.
• Focus: Celebrates the tradition of handloom and handicrafts while providing market access to weavers and artisans.
• Unique Products: Features Paithani, Kotpad, Kota Doria, Tangail, Pochampally, Kancheepuram, Thirubuvanam, Jamdani, Santipuri, Chanderi, Maheshwari, Patola, Moirangphee, Banarasi Brocade, Tanchoi, Bhagalpuri Silk, Bawan Buti, and Pashmina Sari.

Government Initiatives for the Handloom Sector

• National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP): Aimed at the overall development of the handloom sector.
• Raw Material Supply Scheme (RMSS): Ensures the supply of essential raw materials to handloom weavers.
• Weavers’ MUDRA Loan/Concessional Credit Scheme: Provides financial support to weavers.
• Handloom Producer Companies: Encourages the formation of producer companies to enhance the marketing and sales of handloom products.
• Design Resource Centers (DRCs): Offers design support to weavers to improve product quality and marketability.
• One District One Product: Promotes unique handloom products from each district.

National Handloom Day

• Historical context: It commemorates the Swadeshi Movement launched on 7th August 1905, which encouraged indigenous industries, particularly handloom weavers.
  • The First National Handloom Day was held on 7th August 2015 in Chennai.
• Significance: It recognises the efforts and skills of the handloom weaving community and also aims to promote the handloom sector and enhance the livelihood of weavers.

Q1: What is the Geographical Indication (GI) tag?

It is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. This is typically used for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts and industrial products.

News: “VIRAASAT”- Celebrating Handwoven Saris of India Exclusive Handloom Sari Exhibition at National Centre for Heritage Textiles (Handloom Haat) Janpath, New Delhi)