Jaipur, Aug 7 (IANS) Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted India’s rich handloom heritage on National Handloom Day by presenting hand-printed Jaipur Sanganeri shawls to visiting dignitaries attending the BRICS Trade and Industry Ministers’ Meeting in Jaipur.
Sharing the gesture on social media platform X, Goyal wrote, “Proudly Indian, Proudly Sanganeri.” He said the hand-crafted shawls were gifted to the visiting ministers and delegates as a tribute to Rajasthan’s centuries-old textile tradition and the craftsmanship of local artisans.
“On the occasion of National Handloom Day, I gifted beautiful hand-printed Jaipur Sanganeri shawls to the visiting dignitaries at the BRICS India 2026 Trade and Industry Ministers’ Meeting. Our skilled artisans carry forward a legacy of unmatched, timeless craftsmanship,” Goyal posted.
The symbolic presentation of Sanganeri shawls coincided with the successful conclusion of the 16th BRICS Trade Ministers’ Meeting, hosted by India under its BRICS Chairship 2026.
The meeting brought together trade ministers and senior officials from all BRICS member countries to discuss strengthening economic cooperation, resilient supply chains and reforms in the multilateral trading system.
The Sanganeri shawls, known for their intricate hand-block printing, natural dyes and elegant floral motifs, represent one of Rajasthan’s most celebrated traditional crafts.
Originating from Sanganer, near Jaipur, the textile art has earned national and international recognition for its distinctive craftsmanship and continues to support thousands of artisan families.
The presentation also reflected the Government of India’s emphasis on promoting indigenous crafts and handloom products under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.
Celebrated every year on August 7, National Handloom Day honours India’s centuries-old weaving traditions and recognises the contribution of handloom weavers and artisans to the country’s cultural and economic heritage.
By choosing locally crafted Sanganeri shawls as official gifts for international delegates, India showcased not only Rajasthan’s artistic excellence but also the country’s commitment to preserving traditional crafts while promoting them on global platforms.
The gesture reinforced the message of supporting local artisans and highlighted India’s rich cultural legacy alongside its growing leadership role within the BRICS grouping.
--IANS
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