New Delhi, August 3: For generations, Indian artisans have preserved the country’s rich weaving traditions, creating handloom and handicraft products that carry stories of culture, skill, and heritage. Now, a major initiative is set to help these traditional treasures reach wider markets and create new opportunities for artisan communities.
The “GI & Beyond 2.0 Summit”, scheduled to be held in New Delhi on August 5, will showcase India’s Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged handloom and handicraft products, bringing together artisans, exporters, global buyers, industry leaders, and policymakers on one platform.
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Organised by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, in association with the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC), the summit aims to strengthen the identity of Indian handloom products in domestic and international markets.
Celebrating India’s Craftsmanship and Cultural Heritage
More than 100 GI-registered handloom and handicraft products from different regions of India will be displayed at the summit, highlighting the diversity of the country’s traditional crafts.
Each GI-tagged product represents the unique skills of artisan communities and the cultural heritage of a particular region. The recognition helps protect traditional knowledge while providing products with greater authenticity and market value.
For thousands of artisans, these crafts are not just products — they are a source of livelihood, identity, and a connection to generations of craftsmanship.
Opening Doors for Artisans and Global Buyers
The summit will bring together overseas buyers, exporters, textile brands, retail chains, e-commerce platforms, and GI product owners to explore new partnerships and business opportunities.
By connecting artisans directly with larger markets, the initiative aims to improve visibility of Indian crafts and help weavers and craft workers receive better economic opportunities.
A stronger global presence for GI products can help:
- Increase income opportunities for artisan families.
- Create new jobs in rural and semi-urban areas.
- Encourage young people to continue traditional crafts.
- Expand exports of Indian handloom products.
- Strengthen India’s reputation for sustainable and handmade products.
Technology Helping Traditional Crafts Reach New Customers
A major attraction of the summit will be the launch of the Digital Handloom Atlas – “One Platform. Endless Markets”, a digital initiative designed to showcase India’s handloom products and connect artisans with customers and markets worldwide.
Technology is expected to play an important role in transforming the handloom sector by improving product visibility, enabling digital marketing, and helping artisans access new opportunities beyond traditional markets.
The summit will also highlight the role of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), in strengthening the GI ecosystem and promoting Indian products more effectively.
Protecting Heritage, Building Livelihoods
The handloom and handicraft sector remains an important part of India’s cultural and economic landscape. Behind every woven fabric and handcrafted product are the skills, dedication, and creativity of artisan communities.
Supporting GI products means protecting these traditions while creating sustainable growth opportunities for the people who keep them alive.
The GI & Beyond 2.0 Summit represents a bridge between India’s rich heritage and the demands of modern global markets. By combining traditional craftsmanship with technology, innovation, and international collaboration, the initiative aims to ensure that India’s handmade treasures receive the recognition they deserve.
For millions of artisans, the message is clear — India’s traditional crafts are not only a part of the past, but also a pathway towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
