The launch of the #IWearHandloom campaign on social networking sites witnessed support from several high-profile personalities who posted selfies wearing handloom fabrics.
"#IWearHandloom is a campaign to show support to a community which weaves the diverse fabric of our nation's rich heritage and bring international fame to our nation.
"It is a tribute to women who contribute to 15 per cent of cloth production in India and 95 per cent of world handloom production, it is saying thank you for their hardwork and dedication for keeping our traditions alive," Irani said in a Facebook post.
"To show your support, upload a photo wearing handloom with #IWearHandloom and tag atleast 5 friends to upload his/her photo as well," she stated.
Power Minister Piyush Goyal, Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, among others endorsed the campaign. Irani also thanked External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Women & Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi for their support.
Handloom industry is among the top employment generators in India. More than 43 lakh weavers and allied workers are engaged in it, 78 per cent of them being women.