Livelihood Enhancement of Weavers in Assam: A Case of Majuli

Abstract

Industries play a very significant role in the economic development of any country. The Handloom and Textile Industry in India is diverse and one of the most important sector playing a vital role in the Indian Economy. Handloom sector contributes nearly 19 percent of the total cloth produced in the country and also adds substantially to export earnings. Another important aspect of this sector is that it provides immense level of empowerment to the women. The handloom sector is special as it nurtures and preserves ancient weaving skills which are unique to each state and region and also provides employment to large number of rural households. The rhythm of handloom can be heard almost in every village in India which flows from one generation to another. Besides it cut across any social obstacles in terms of religion, region, caste and culture. Contrary to that skill or talent alone cannot help the weavers to sustain and thrive. The nature of markets is changing so are the demand of the consumers. In such a competitive world one require more than skill or talent to survive. They need the ability to constantly innovate and improve so as to maintain their stake in the market. The North Eastern States of India houses some of the best weavers in the nation where major composition of the people are tribal. It is noteworthy to mention that the tribal people are naturally endowed with excellent weaving skills. Their handloom and textiles are vibrant with unique pattern, design and color choices representing their cultural heritage. Based on this understanding, the Majuli River Island in Assam is selected as the study area where 46% of the total population is tribal. Accordingly this study seeks to study the livelihood pattern of weavers in Majuli, various problems and challenges faced by them in earning their livelihood and suggest suitable remedial strategies for their livelihood enhancement. The expected outcome of this study will be various Sustainable Livelihood Approaches for the weavers in Majuli, which will widen the horizon to lead a respectable life.