Giriraj Singh Unveils Comic At 43rd Special Handloom Expo In Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 24 (KNN) Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh inaugurated the Special Handloom Expo and presided over the 43rd Foundation Day celebrations of the National Handloom Development Corporation (NHDC) at Handloom Haat in New Delhi.

The event was attended by Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles; Dr. Beena, Development Commissioner (Handlooms); senior officials of the Ministry and NHDC; along with weavers, cooperative societies and stakeholders from across the country.

During the programme, the Minister released a multilingual comic book aimed at enhancing awareness of the handloom sector, particularly among younger audiences.

An annual report presentation highlighted NHDC’s key initiatives and outreach efforts over the past year, with a focus on measures to support the economic empowerment of weavers.

The occasion marked 43 years of NHDC’s role in strengthening the handloom ecosystem and supporting rural livelihoods. Addressing the gathering, the Minister underscored the sector’s contribution to rural employment and sustainable, indigenous production systems.

He reiterated the government’s emphasis on promoting domestic manufacturing, expanding market access for artisans and encouraging wider support for Swadeshi textiles, while outlining future initiatives for the Corporation.

The Foundation Day celebrations coincided with the Special Handloom Expo, being held from 21 February to 2 March 2026, which aims to promote handloom products, facilitate direct market linkages between weavers and consumers, and enhance sustainable livelihood opportunities.

(KNN Bureau)