Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao Inaugurates ‘Thread Pochampally’ Handloom Exhibition in Hyderabad

Telangana Agriculture, Handlooms and Textiles Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao on Friday inaugurated the “Thread Pochampally” handloom exhibition at the HITEX Exhibition Centre in Hyderabad, showcasing the rich weaving traditions of Telangana as part of the state government's “Telangana Rising” initiative.

The exhibition, which will continue until June 7, brings together artisans, handloom producers and cultural stakeholders on a single platform to promote the globally acclaimed Pochampally Ikat craft. Addressing the gathering, the minister said the exceptional skill of Pochampally weavers has earned worldwide recognition and remains a matter of pride for Telangana.

Emphasising the importance of preserving India’s handloom legacy, Tummala said it is the collective responsibility of society to ensure that traditional weaving practices are passed on to future generations. He noted that the Geographical Indication (GI) tag awarded to Pochampally Ikat reflects the creativity, craftsmanship and cultural value associated with the region’s artisans.

The minister also recalled Pochampally’s historical significance as the birthplace of the Bhoodan Movement , stating that the town occupies a unique place in the country’s social and cultural history. He stressed the need to further strengthen the global market presence of Pochampally Ikat sarees and handwoven rumals to create better livelihood opportunities for weaving communities.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to the sector, Tummala said that under the leadership of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy , more than ₹1,400 crore has been spent during the last two-and-a-half years on handloom development and welfare initiatives. He assured weavers that the government would continue extending support to safeguard employment and improve economic prospects.

Highlighting efforts to modernise the industry, the minister said the state has established the Indian Institute of Handloom Technology (IIHT) to equip young members of weaving families with training in modern designs, advanced technologies and market-oriented production techniques. Such initiatives, he said, will help Telangana’s handloom sector compete effectively in international markets.

The exhibition features more than 100 stalls displaying authentic handloom products sourced directly from weavers and manufacturers in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district . Visitors can explore a diverse collection of traditional textiles, luxury sarees and contemporary apparel that blend heritage craftsmanship with modern design.

Organisers said the event is designed not only as a marketplace but also as a vibrant cultural platform celebrating Telangana’s artistic traditions and rural lifestyle. The initiative is also expected to boost rural tourism by promoting Pochampally as a weekend destination for visitors from Hyderabad, with information on local craft clusters, cultural attractions and village experiences being made available to attendees.

The event was attended by Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy , Bhongir MP Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy , Bhongir MLA Kumbam Anil Kumar , representatives of handloom cooperative societies, artisans and industry stakeholders.