Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Handloom Technology (CoE-HT) at IIT Delhi. The centre aims to integrate advanced technologies, research and innovation with India’s traditional weaving heritage to create a more competitive and future-ready handloom ecosystem.

The inauguration was accompanied by the launch of five flagship initiatives designed to accelerate digital adoption, skill development, sustainability and entrepreneurship across the sector.

Among the key launches was the Handloom 4.0 Mobile App, which will enable digital monitoring of loom productivity, quality and maintenance. The Handloom e-Vidya platform will serve as a digital learning hub for weavers and industry stakeholders, while HandloomX will support startups and innovators through incubation and acceleration programmes.

The Ministry also introduced Kalagriha Handloom Studio, a Gen-Z-focused digital design platform aimed at connecting contemporary consumers with authentic handloom products through customization and visualization technologies. Another notable initiative, Threads of Valour, focuses on converting recycled defence textiles into premium handloom fabrics, promoting circularity and sustainability.

Speaking at the event, Giriraj Singh said the centre reflects the government’s vision of blending India’s rich handloom traditions with cutting-edge technologies to improve productivity, enhance market access and create better livelihood opportunities for weavers.

The Centre will undertake research in areas such as loom modernisation, artificial intelligence, ergonomics, sustainability, functional innovation and digital technologies.