Assessing Community Needs, Stakeholder Collaboration and the Influence of Modernization: A Case Study on Transforming Handloom Practices

ABSTRACT: This study investigates the need for the adoption of modern handloom tools, including jacquard and warping drums, and evaluates their impact on income generation, production efficiency, market reach, and women’s empowerment in rural areas of Udalguri District, Assam. A purposive sampling method was used to survey 50 households in total. The findings reveal that the jacquard and warping drums significantly reduced the time required for weaving, mitigating weather dependence and improving productivity. Consequently, beneficiaries reported increased income, leading to independent entrepreneurship. The marketing strategies employed included direct market linkage through Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), participation, and connection with buyers to expand market access. Types of products included Silk and Cotton, and most of the products were sold in local markets. Training initiatives have been conducted to enhance product quality and design diversity. Weavers, who previously worked with limited designs, have now adopted innovative patterns to boost product demand. The study underscores the pivotal role of CSOs in hand-holding support, development of marketing linkage, tracking systems, and development of community resource persons (CRPs) through cluster-based training programs. The modern handloom tools play a transformative role in enhancing productivity, income, and market access, while simultaneously empowering women and strengthening rural economies.