New Delhi: In a heartfelt celebration of National Handloom Day, Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, interacted virtually with lakhs of Self-Help Group (SHG) women members across the country. The interaction was held from Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi, in the presence of Minister of State Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Rural Development Secretary Shri Shailesh Kumar Singh, and other senior officials.
“Handloom symbolises self-reliance; it was also a weapon of non-violent struggle during India’s freedom movement,” said Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
SHG Women Share Transformational Impact of NRLM
During the event, women from diverse regions shared personal stories of transformation through the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). They credited the mission with improving not only their financial stability but also elevating their social identity and confidence.
“Women embody power and creativity. Their handloom work is admired not only in India but globally,” remarked the Minister, applauding the remarkable skills and creativity of rural artisans.
Handlooms: A Blend of Tradition, Artistry and National Pride
Highlighting the cultural significance of handlooms, Shri Chouhan said they are much more than fabric — they are woven expressions of local art, identity, and pride. He appreciated SHG women’s contribution to reviving traditional crafts, calling it a “vital part of India’s folk traditions.”
The Minister acknowledged challenges in marketing and branding faced by SHG women and promised support in the form of training and design development initiatives to boost their competitiveness in the domestic and global markets.
Pledge for Swadeshi and National Interest
Shri Chouhan invoked the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and urged citizens to wholeheartedly adopt swadeshi (indigenous) products.
“Nation first; embrace swadeshi and strengthen national pride,” he asserted.
He reiterated the commitment to never compromise on national interests, even at personal cost, and encouraged Indians to promote ‘Vocal for Local’, especially during festive occasions like Raksha Bandhan.
Lakhpati Didis: Women Leading India’s Economic Empowerment
Celebrating the success of SHG initiatives, Shri Chouhan proudly shared that over 1.5 crore women have become ‘Lakhpati Didis’ — women who earn more than ₹1 lakh annually. The government now aims to increase this number to 3 crore, signifying a massive leap in women-led economic empowerment.
A Vision of a Self-Reliant India
The event concluded with Shri Chouhan’s visit to SHG product stalls, where he personally commended the dedication and craftsmanship of women entrepreneurs. He affirmed the collective pledge to “adopt indigenous products and enhance our national pride.”
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