Panaji: August 7, 2026:::Reaffirming the Government of Goa’s commitment to preserving and promoting the State’s rich handloom heritage, the Department of Handicrafts, Textile & Coir, Government of Goa, today organised the State-level celebration of the 12th National Handloom Day at the Multipurpose Hall, Sanskruti Bhavan, Patto, Panaji. The celebration commemorated the Swadeshi Movement of 1905 while recognising the invaluable contribution of handloom weavers and artisans towards preserving India’s rich cultural heritage, generating employment and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Speaking at the occasion, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said, “The Government is continuously working to provide a distinct identity to handloom products and the iconic Kunbi Saree.” He noted that the introduction of weaving machinery in villages has increased women’s participation in the sector and highlighted the growing national demand for the Kunbi Saree. He said Kunbi Shawls are presented to distinguished visitors to the State, including Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, as part of the Government’s efforts to promote Goa’s handloom heritage. Assuring weavers of the Government’s support, he said the work on wider market linkages for Kunbi products is in its final stage and added, “You produce quality products, and the Government will ensure market access.”
Promoting traditional crafts through innovation and outreach, CM Dr. Sawant visited the exhibition stalls and appreciated the efforts of women artisans in preserving Goa’s weaving traditions from Pernem to Canacona. He noted that the initiative aligns with the nationwide campaigns #MyHandloomMyPride and #MyProductMyPride, while reinforcing the Government’s efforts to strengthen market linkages, promote authentic handloom products and create greater opportunities for Goa’s weaving community.
Showcasing Goa’s vibrant weaving traditions, the programme featured a live handloom weaving demonstration, traditional block printing demonstration, a handloom exhibition displaying products from the Department’s 13 Handloom Production Centres and 3 Handloom Training Centres, and a handloom fashion show presented by students. The event also witnessed the distribution of Loom Allotment Certificates and Sanction Orders to eligible handloom weavers by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, reaffirming the Government’s continued support for the revival and modernisation of the handloom sector.
Strengthening culture through sustainable livelihoods, the National Handloom Day celebration reflected the Government of Goa’s continued commitment to preserving traditional crafts, empowering artisans and promoting indigenous handloom products. By enhancing skill development, expanding market opportunities and encouraging wider public participation, the initiative aims to safeguard Goa’s rich weaving heritage for future generations.
The programme was attended by Secretary, Department of Handicrafts, Textile & Coir Shri Nikhil U. Dessai, IAS; Director, Department of Handicrafts, Textile & Coir Shri Sagun R. Velip; Project Director, DRDA Smt. Dipali Naik; Assistant Director, Department of Handicrafts, Textile & Coir Smt. Sonia Kunkalkar; handloom weavers; artisans; students and other distinguished guests.
