The Role of Women in Driving Growth of the Handloom Sector

The handloom sector in India is one of the oldest and most culturally significant industries. Beyond its heritage value, it contributes substantially to rural employment and the economy. Women form a significant part of this workforce, and their participation is vital not only for sustaining the craft but also for boosting economic outcomes and social empowerment.

Women as the Backbone of Handloom Production
Women are involved in multiple stages of handloom production, from spinning yarn to weaving and finishing fabrics. As per the Fourth Handloom Census 2019-20 (latest official), women constitute about 72.29% of the total handloom workforce in India, which translates to approximately 2.54 million female workers out of 3.52 million handloom workers across the country.

In many rural households, handloom work is a primary source of income for women, giving them financial independence and the ability to support their families. Studies indicate that sectors with higher women's participation often see better productivity and improved quality of output.

Economic and Social Impact
A higher percentage of women in the workforce brings multiple benefits, including: 

1. Economic Contribution: Increased women's participation expands the production capacity of the sector, allowing handloom products to reach broader markets. 

2. Skill Development: Women acquire specialised skills over time, improving the quality and innovation in weaving designs.

3. Social Empowerment: Financial independence enhances women’s decision-making power within households and communities.

As per the Fourth All India Handloom Census 2019-20, the handloom sector employs over 26.7 lakh handloom weavers (directly and indirectly) according to official Ministry of Textiles data, with women being the backbone. This sector is particularly crucial in rural areas, with 88.7% of handloom households (over 22.5 lakh) located in rural India, with 67% of handloom households earning less than ₹5,000 per month, while 26% earn between ₹5,001 and ₹10,000 per month.

Handloom activities form the primary source of income for a significant portion of these households, while for others, it serves as a vital supplementary source, especially during non-agricultural seasons. For these rural families, even partial earnings from handloom (ranging from ₹3,000–₹10,000 per month) provide a critical buffer against rural income volatility and contribute significantly to household stability. 

In key traditional women-led weaving clusters in states such as Assam, West Bengal, and Odisha, where handloom is the mainstay for local economies, have not only maintained traditional weaving techniques but also contributed to increased exports of handloom products, generating significant local income. 

Challenges and Opportunities
Despite their central role, women handloom workers often face challenges such as irregular wages, limited access to credit, and a lack of formal training. Addressing these challenges through government schemes, skill development programs, and cooperative models can further enhance the sector’s growth and the economic empowerment of women.

The Road Ahead
To ensure the growth of the handloom sector, women’s participation must be strengthened further. Policies that support collective enterprises, cooperatives, and women-led self-help groups can be game changers. Exposure to modern design techniques, digital marketing, and sustainable practices can open new markets while protecting heritage.

Most importantly, creating supportive ecosystems such as access to childcare, fair wages, and healthcare benefits can ensure that women remain active and motivated participants in the sector. By focusing on these areas, the handloom sector can become a model of inclusive growth, blending tradition with empowerment.

Women are more than just contributors to the handloom sector; they are drivers of growth, innovation, and sustainability. Encouraging higher participation and providing supportive frameworks can unlock both social and economic benefits, ensuring the long-term resilience of this traditional industry.