Changthang, Aug 7 (JKNS): The District Administration Changthang, in collaboration with the Department of Handlooms & Handicrafts, Leh, celebrated National Handloom Day with great enthusiasm at Lukung village, nestled on the banks of the iconic Pangong Lake at an altitude of over 14,000 feet above sea level.
Observed every year on 7th August, National Handloom Day commemorates the historic Swadeshi Movement of 1905, which inspired the use of indigenous products and became a defining milestone in India’s freedom struggle.
The celebration reaffirmed the importance of handloom as a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage, self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.
Deputy Commissioner, Changthang, Shri Nitish Rajora, IAS, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the significance of preserving Ladakh’s unique handloom traditions while encouraging artisans to embrace innovation and improve the quality and marketability of their products.
He appreciated the dedicated efforts of the Department of Handlooms & Handicrafts, Leh, and the Sub-Divisional Administration, Changthang, for organising the celebration in one of the country’s highest inhabited regions and for their continuous commitment towards the welfare and empowerment of local artisans and weavers.
To strengthen the handloom sector and enhance the productivity of local artisans, Amber Charkhas and Fly Shuttle Looms were distributed among weavers under various departmental initiatives.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by the Assistant Director, Handlooms & Handicrafts, Leh, who highlighted the significance of National Handloom Day and the Department’s initiatives for promoting traditional crafts, skill development and artisan welfare. The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks.
A major highlight of the event was a Tiranga Rally led by local artisans and handloom weavers carrying a beautifully hand-knitted National Flag crafted by local women weavers. The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from weavers, students, officials of the District Administration, government functionaries and members of the public, symbolising unity, patriotism and pride in India’s rich handloom heritage.
The event also marked the launch of the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign in Changthang, with week-long celebrations commencing from 7th August. The occasion carried forward the enduring message of the Swadeshi Movement, conveying from the high Himalayas of Changthang the importance of self-reliance, indigenous craftsmanship and support for local artisans.
As part of the celebrations, the Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign was also launched with a cleanliness drive around the pristine Pangong Lake, where officials, students, artisans and local residents joined hands to promote environmental conservation, cleanliness and responsible tourism.
The National Handloom Day celebrations at Lukung reflected the spirit of ‘Vocal for Local’, ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Swadeshi Se Samriddhi’, showcasing how the timeless traditions of Ladakh’s handloom sector continue to strengthen livelihoods while preserving the region’s unique cultural identity. (JKNS)
