Centre Takes Steps For GI AU Tag To Weavers Of Odisha’s Sambalpuri Handloom Products

Sambalpur: The central government has initiated steps for GI AU (Authorised Users) tag to weavers of Odisha’s Sambalpuri handloom products.

This was revealed by Roop Rashi, Textile Commissioner, Ministry of Textiles at an event of Indian Institute of Management in Sambalpur on Saturday. The event was organised on the occasion of valedictory function of the Small Business Management Training Programme for Master Weavers of Odisha. The programme aimed at promoting strategic collaborations with reputed organisations including Flipkart and SIDBI to support the handloom business in Odisha.

Rashi said strategic measures and collaboration can promote local enterprises and ensure their self-sustainability. “Breaking free from the typical local enterprise mindset is key to fostering growth and sustainability. Creating a sustainable product value chain that empowers and recognises producers is crucial. Identifying and acknowledging producers is vital for their effective bargaining and avoiding undervaluation,” she added.

Prof Mahadev Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said the institute will continue to provide support and train the master weavers and artisans of Odisha based on the Shared Service Model. As they have signed MoU with the International Institute of Education Universities Consortium, Paris, France and have a campus in Delhi, the handloom products of Master Weavers will be exhibited in Delhi, Paris and Milan, he added.

As many as 17 Master Weavers, who have undergone training, have joined the ONDC digital platform and started selling their products. The platform will feature products of around 100 weavers soon. Subhranshu Sekhar Acharya, CGM, SIDBI was also present.

A book titled “Training Manual for The Small Business Management and Training Programme for the Master Weavers” and the project website ‘www.bunkarvalleys.com’ were launched on the occasion.

Notably, Odisha already possess GI tag for Sambalpuri Bandha Saree & Fabrics (Handicraft). Sambalpuri sarees incorporate traditional motifs like shankha (shell), chakra (wheel), phula (flower) in red, black and white. Sambalpuri fabrics reflect an original style of craft known as Baandha. Craftsmen create Baandhas with images of flora/fauna/geometrical patterns.

According researcher and GI activist Anita Sabat, the GI AU certificate will help increase income of genuine weavers as the products will then gain popularity. It will also allow them to take part in different GI exhibitions. Their products will be sold in retailers shop as the ones with the tag, lending them prominency and genuineness, she added.