Urgent Plea: Protect Weavers’ Livelihoods from Surging Carry-Over Stock of Saris and Dhotis This Pongal!

Weavers in Tamil Nadu who produce saris and dhotis for free distribution during the Pongal festival are bracing for a substantial reduction in orders this year, casting a shadow over their livelihoods. The state’s free saree and dhoti scheme supports approximately 60,000 looms, providing crucial income to local artisans. This year, demand for saris and dhotis is projected at 1.77 crore each for distribution during Pongal 2026. However, as of December 2024, weavers have only supplied around 1.5 crore saris and a similar amount of dhotis, leaving them with a surplus stock of 23.2 lakh saris and 19.6 lakh dhotis. Registered cooperative societies are also facing shortfalls, with 8.18 lakh saris and 13.3 lakh dhotis in inventory.

According to a government directive issued in April, weavers are expected to provide 1.46 crore saris and 1.44 crore dhotis this year, factoring in a carryover stock of 31.54 lakh saris and 33.12 lakh dhotis from the previous year. Concerns are mounting among weavers, particularly those in Erode, about the magnitude of the carryover stock. “There’s a possibility that the surplus may be greater than reported, and if that’s the case, the orders for Pongal 2026 could dwindle. This reduction would ripple through the entire supply chain, impacting everyone from yarn suppliers to nearly 2,000 women employed in folding and preparing the saris and dhotis,” stated one of the weavers.

To mitigate potential declines in order volume, industry stakeholders are urging the government to conduct an accurate assessment of the saris and dhotis needed for Pongal and to adjust orders accordingly. “It is essential that the products supplied by weavers reach beneficiaries without issues. This free saree and dhoti scheme is more than just a cultural practice; it serves as a critical engine for employment in rural weaving communities,” the weaver added.

The state’s support plays a significant role in sustaining local craftsmanship and community livelihoods, underscoring the need for thoughtful management of the distribution scheme. Stakeholders are hopeful that by collaborating with the government, they can ensure that the benefits of this longstanding initiative continue to flow to those who depend on it most.

As this situation unfolds, many in the weaving sector are watching closely, aware that their economic stability is at stake. Addressing the balance between supply and demand will be key to preserving the fabric of rural employment and maintaining the rich tradition of sari and dhoti weaving in Tamil Nadu.

Stay tuned as developments in this crucial matter continue to evolve, impacting both artisans and the communities they serve.

Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/carry-over-stock-of-saris-and-dhotis-for-pongal-distribution-likely-to-reduce-job-for-weavers/article69887062.ece
Category : Coimbatore
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Publish Date: 2025-08-02 19:34:00