The University Grants Commission (UGC) has once again urged universities to embrace handloom fabrics for ceremonial robes during special occasions, especially convocations. The recommendation, initially communicated in 2015 and reasserted in 2019, emphasizes the comfort of handloom fabrics in India’s climatic conditions and highlights their role in fostering a sense of national pride.
Manish R Joshi, UGC Secretary, stated, “Many universities have already heeded the UGC’s suggestion and transitioned to handloom fabrics for ceremonial attire during their annual convocations. However, some institutions are yet to make this switch. It is again requested that universities consider adopting handloom fabrics, promoting Indian pride and supporting the handloom industry, which significantly contributes to rural employment.”
The UGC’s directive is a response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2015 appeal to revive handlooms in India. Considering the country’s warm and humid climate, the UGC emphasized that handloom ceremonial robes would not only provide comfort but also contribute to a sense of national identity.
Educational institutions are urged to share the actions taken in response to this recommendation, including photographs and videos, as part of their commitment to promoting national pride and supporting the handloom sector.
