National Handloom Day 2026

National Handloom Day, observed on 7 August, marks the celebration of India’s weaving heritage and the contribution of 35.22 lakh handloom weavers and allied workers, over 72 % of whom are women. The Fourth All‑India Handloom Census (2019‑20) recorded 28.20 lakh looms, 90 % of which are in rural areas. Government support is channelled through the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP) and the Raw Material Supply Scheme, with budget allocations of ₹205 crore and ₹200 crore respectively for 2026‑27, and schemes such as the Small Cluster Development Programme, Handloom Marketing Assistance, and concessional Weaver MUDRA loans. Handloom exports reached approximately ₹1,330.96 crore in 2025‑26, with major destinations including the UAE and the United States. Recent GST reforms reduced the tax rate on 36 handicraft items from 12 % to 5 %, further easing costs for the sector.