State Minister for Textiles and Jute Md Shariful Alam has said necessary policies will be taken for the development of the handloom industry by giving importance to the problems, possibilities and suggestions of marginal weavers. He made this announcement at a view-exchange meeting with weavers in Baaitara village of Sadar Upazila of Sirajganj. The weavers discussed various issues, including industry development, problems faced by weavers, loan facilities, the price of raw materials, and marketing. The state minister emphasized the necessity of understanding the real problems of weavers to inform future plans and policies. He highlighted that Sirajganj is a major center for the handloom industry in Bangladesh and that the government is working to revive the traditional industry. Weavers raised concerns about yarn, dyes, raw material prices, product pricing, market management, and middlemen. The state minister assured that necessary measures will be taken to ensure that actual weavers and members of the weavers' association receive the benefits of government support. He mentioned that about Taka 65 crore in loan assistance has already been provided in Sirajganj Sadar, Ullapara, Shahjadpur, and Belkuchi areas at an interest rate of four percent. Future initiatives will aim to bring more weavers under the loan facility, requiring their cooperation for proper utilization and timely repayment. The state minister also discussed plans to use the newly built loom training center and basic center in Sirajganj to provide training, develop trainees into employment and entrepreneurs, and create connections with universities, textile institutions, and industrial establishments for hands-on learning and employment opportunities. He expressed hope that with joint efforts, the traditional weaving industry of Bangladesh would regain its prosperity. Textiles and Jute Secretary Sharf Uddin Ahmed Choudhury, senior officials of the Bangladesh Handloom Board, representatives of the local administration, and leaders of the weavers' association were present at the event.
The handloom industry holds significant cultural and economic value for Bangladesh, contributing to both heritage preservation and rural employment. Revitalizing this sector is crucial for sustaining traditional crafts and supporting the livelihoods of countless weavers across the country.
