Handloom Conclave – Manthan: A Proud Moment for Aditri at the Heart of India’s Handloom Industry

On January 28th, 2025, New Delhi hosted one of the most significant events in the handloom sector, the Handloom Conclave – Manthan. Inaugurated by Union Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh and successfully organized by the Ministry of Textiles at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, Janpath, Delhi, the event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, industry leaders, and innovators. The conclave served as a vital platform to discuss the future of handlooms and explore ways to foster growth and sustainability within this essential and culturally rich sector.

For Aditri, known for its dedication to handloom heritage and innovation, this event was not only a source of immense pride but also an opportunity to contribute to meaningful discussions with the potential to transform the handloom industry. Aditri was honored to be invited as a panelist in the discussion on the theme “Support for the Startup Ecosystem in the Handloom Sector,” marking a significant milestone for the brand.

The Handloom Conclave – Manthan: An Interactive Platform for Industry Growth

The Handloom Conclave – Manthan served as an interactive workshop and panel discussion focused on understanding the needs and challenges of the handloom sector. The event delved into several key areas essential for the industry’s growth and sustainability, including:

Understanding the Needs of Buyers: In a dynamic market, handloom manufacturers must adapt to changing consumer preferences to remain relevant.
Limitations of Handloom Manufacturers: Discussions highlighted the challenges faced by manufacturers, such as access to technology, raw materials, and skilled labor, which hinder the sector’s growth potential.
Customer Expectations: As consumers increasingly embrace sustainable and ethical fashion, understanding their expectations regarding quality, design, and authenticity is critical for sustaining the handloom industry.
Positioning of Handloom Products: While handloom textiles hold immense cultural value, they need to be strategically positioned in the market as contemporary, high-quality products that align with both aesthetic and ethical consumer demands.
Buyer Awareness: A major concern highlighted during the event was the lack of awareness among consumers about the value and significance of handloom products. Strategies to bridge this gap and enhance demand were explored.

The event welcomed over 300 invitees, including industry leaders, handloom beneficiaries, and officials from Central and State Governments, all of whom engaged in insightful discussions to drive progress in the handloom sector. The presence of key stakeholders, such as the Office of the DC Handlooms, Ministry of Textiles, Invest India-DPIIT, and the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT-NFDI), reinforced the event’s credibility and commitment to the industry’s future.

Aditri’s Role and Contribution to the Conclave

For Aditri, participating in such a prestigious event was a humbling experience. The brand remains dedicated to supporting the handloom ecosystem by offering contemporary designs that celebrate the beauty and craftsmanship of handwoven textiles. The opportunity to contribute to the discussion on the startup ecosystem within the handloom sector was both an honor and a testament to Aditri’s growing influence in the industry.

Aditri emphasized the critical role of startups in revitalizing the handloom industry. Startups bring innovation, introduce new business models, and integrate technology to address longstanding challenges in the sector. Aditri itself has worked relentlessly to bridge the gap between traditional weavers and modern consumers, ensuring the preservation and evolution of age-old craft techniques in today’s market.

During the panel discussion, Aditri highlighted the need for policies that foster innovation and entrepreneurship within the handloom sector. Startups like Aditri, with their focus on quality, design, and sustainability, play a vital role in rejuvenating the industry and positioning handloom products as competitive options in global markets.

Aditri also underscored the importance of creating platforms for market access, capacity-building, and financing solutions tailored to handloom manufacturers and startups. Strengthening these areas will not only benefit entrepreneurs but also empower traditional weavers who are the backbone of the industry.

The Significance of the Event for the Handloom Industry

The Handloom Conclave – Manthan was more than just a discussion; it was a call to action for all stakeholders to collaborate and address the challenges faced by the handloom industry. The event provided a platform to deliberate on crucial issues affecting not only weavers but also entrepreneurs, buyers, and policymakers involved in the sector.

As one of India’s oldest crafts, the handloom industry has encountered numerous obstacles, from declining interest in traditional textiles to increasing competition from machine-made fabrics. However, the conclave showcased the resilience of the sector and emphasized the need for innovation, collaboration, and strategic support at every level.

The active participation of the Ministry of Textiles, Invest India, and NIFT as organizers highlighted the government’s commitment to revitalizing the handloom sector. With their support and the engagement of industry leaders like Aditri, the sector has the potential to reclaim its prominence in both national and international markets.

Aditri’s Appreciation for Its Customers and the Weaver Community

At the heart of Aditri’s journey lies a profound respect and admiration for the weaver community, whose unparalleled artistry and dedication form the foundation of the handloom industry. Aditri’s success is built on the trust and collaboration of weavers, who co-create exquisite handwoven products that showcase India’s rich textile heritage.

Aditri is also immensely grateful to its customers, who continue to support the brand’s vision and mission to promote handloom. By choosing Aditri, customers contribute to the preservation of traditional crafts and the livelihoods of countless weavers across the country.

The brand’s recognition at the Handloom Conclave – Manthan is a testament to the strength of this partnership, as Aditri remains committed to working alongside weavers and stakeholders to elevate handloom textiles and ensure their lasting significance in the fashion industry.

Conclusion: Looking Ahead to a Bright Future for Handlooms

The Handloom Conclave – Manthan marked a significant milestone for Aditri, reinforcing its dedication to fostering growth within the handloom sector and supporting startups that drive innovation. While challenges remain, the conclave demonstrated that the future of handloom products is promising, particularly with the collective efforts of traditional weavers, forward-thinking startups, and supportive government policies.

As highlighted during the event, the resurgence of the handloom sector depends on its ability to adapt to contemporary market demands while maintaining its cultural and ethical integrity. With the continued efforts of brands like Aditri and the unwavering support of key stakeholders, the handloom industry is poised for a remarkable revival in both national and global markets.

Aditri remains steadfast in its mission to co-create handloom with weavers and partners, contributing to the transformative journey of India’s handloom industry. Through collaboration and innovation, the future of handlooms has never looked brighter.

Gratitude to Our Supporters

Our journey at Handloom Conclave – Manthan 2025 would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our customers and the weaver fraternity. Their trust in Aditri continues to drive our mission of sustaining a thriving ecosystem for Indian handlooms. We are truly grateful for this recognition and remain committed to making a lasting impact in the industry.
We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed dignitaries who graced the event with their insights and support:

Shri Giriraj Singh, Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, Government of India
Shri Pabitra Margherita, Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs & Textiles, Government of India
Dr. M Beena, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India
Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Textiles, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India

Their invaluable support and commitment to the handloom industry have been instrumental in making the Handloom Conclave – Manthan a resounding success