India’s handloom sector has received a significant technology boost with the inauguration of the Centre of Excellence for Handloom Technology (CoE-HT) at IIT Delhi. Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh inaugurated the center, describing it as an important step towards combining India’s rich handloom heritage with modern technology, research and innovation to build a stronger and more competitive industry.

Speaking at the inauguration, Giriraj Singh said the new centre reflects the government’s vision of preparing the handloom sector for the future while preserving its traditional identity. He added that digital technologies, innovation, sustainability and entrepreneurship will play an important role in improving productivity, expanding market access and creating better livelihood opportunities for handloom weavers across the country.

The inauguration was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Textiles, faculty members from IIT Delhi, researchers, startup founders, representatives of the handloom industry and weavers from different parts of India. During the event, Textiles Secretary Neelam Shami Rao stressed the need for stronger collaboration between academic institutions, industry and government agencies to develop practical technology solutions that directly support the growth and modernisation of the handloom sector.