Textiles Ministry Surveys Uppada Jamdani Weaving to Support Andhra Handloom Artisans

Swift Summary

• Survey Initiated: The Ministry of Textiles has tasked the South Zone Weavers’ Service Center (WSC), Chennai, with conducting a detailed survey to assess the status of Uppada Jamdani saree weaving and socio-economic conditions of weavers in Kakinada district, Andhra Pradesh.
• Craft Details: Uppada Jamdani sarees are registered under Geographical Indications (GI) since 2009, limiting their production to the Uppada region. known for intricate double-sided motifs requiring precise skill, this craft predominantly employs women from the fishing community.
• Government Assistance: ₹12 crore assistance proposed by Andhra Pradesh under NHDP (2022-26), with matching funds allocated locally. Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh has assured support pending WSC’s report submission.
• Challenges: Weaver participation in handloom cooperatives has drastically declined; only one active weaver remained by 2022. Saree designers have shifted outside the GI region due to lack of local talent.
• Potential Impact: Revival efforts could benefit over 700 people involved in weaving if NHDP aid is granted.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The distressing state of Uppada Jamdani saree production highlights broader challenges within India’s handloom sector: declining artisan participation and systemic dependency on government subsidies for survival. While GI registration offers protection against imitation, it requires robust marketing and sustained weaver support to remain viable long-term. the centerpiece of this revival effort-the proposed ₹12 crore under NHDP-reflects critical intervention aimed at design innovation and economic relief.

Though, structural collapses like that seen in the lone cooperative show clear gaps between policy frameworks and ground realities, especially as customary roles adapt or dissolve within evolving socio-economic contexts (e.g., fisherfolk assuming key responsibilities). Engagement through surveys might generate actionable insights but remains insufficient alone-solutions will require alignment between skill cultivation programs, market access initiatives, and direct livelihood enhancement schemes.for India’s diverse craft heritage like Uppada Jamdani to thrive sustainably, stakeholders must balance preserving traditional techniques with integrating modern advancements while addressing root issues such as role attrition among artisans.

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