Indian Heritage and Commerce: Problems and Growth of The Handloom Sector

India's handloom industry is a vital traditional sector that merges cultural heritage, rural employment, and indigenous craftsmanship.After thriving under the Mughal period's flexible manufacturing practices, the sector declined under adverse British colonial policies.Today, it faces threats from mechanised production, fast fashion, shifting consumer preferences, limited market access, low artisan incomes, and declining youth participation.Despite these challenges, the Fourth All India Handloom Census (2019-20) records 35.22 lakh weavers and allied workers, highlighting its ongoing livelihood impact.Supported by initiatives like 'Make in India', the sector holds strong potential for output, employment, and export growth.Based on secondary data, this paper provides an overview of the handloom sector, examines its core challenges, and evaluates government promotional policies.