New Delhi/IBNS: US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo on Friday witnessed the live loom and craft demonstration during a visit to the Handloom Haat New Delhi’s Janpath.

She interacted with women artisans and weavers and appreciated the significant contribution of women in the textiles sector.

The week-long celebratory program has been organised by Ministry of Textiles, as part of International women’s day #ViraasatCelebratingShakti at Handloom Haat, Janpath, New Delhi from 6th to 12th March 2023.

A total of 75 stalls have been put up by women handloom weavers, craft persons, entrepreneurs and designers including many national awardees.

Union Minister of State for Textiles Darshana Jardoshi explained the vitality of handloom and handicrafts to the US Secretary of Commerce with special focus on their importance as part of India’s cultural heritage and as source of employment for a large number of people, especially women.

She further stressed upon the circularity and sustainability in handicrafts and handlooms.

Circularity in textiles aims to shift from the take-make-dispose linear value chain into a circular system where value is retained for a longer period. Focus is on reducing waste in the value stream by employing different circular strategies like recycle, repair, reuse/remanufacture, rental and resale, the Minister said.

Sustainability has gained importance as per SDG commitments. Handloom and handicraft pioneer sustainability with the use of natural local raw material, natural dyes, recycled material etc., she added.

The exhibition is open to the public from 11 am to 8 pm till 12.03.2023.