The tour, which was flagged off by the Minister for Industries and Commerce, S S Slathia, was organised by J&K Handloom department under the aegis of Handloom Development Commissioner, Union Ministry of Textiles and Government of India.
Speaking on the occasion, the minister called for showcasing state's handloom products and handicrafts in the world market in a big way adding these artifacts have ancient origin and have enjoyed royal and aristocratic patronage.
Slathia said handloom products and handicrafts of the state are fascinating and are in high demand with mass customers base in the world market.
These are intricate in designs and softest of the stuff, he said, adding, need of the hour is to capture the huge customer base by exploring modern marketing channels including net-marketing.
He said exposure visits for the weavers have been tailored to acquaint them about the modern marketing trends and changing customers choice.
Slathia said awareness-cum-exposure visits would enable them to interact with the weavers of other states and share their experience in the field of arts and crafts.
These trips are also important for product diversification for enhanced sales to improve livelihood of the weavers, he said.
The Minister asked the artisans to avail the incentives and packages being provided to them by the central and the state governments optimally, adding, government has planned to replace all the traditional looms with modern looms.
Such 500 looms have already been distributed free of cost and further 500 looms will be distributed shortly, he added.
The Director Handloom, Daulat Ram, in his welcome address said the group of 35 Handloom Weavers will visit Ranchi and other weaving centres in Jharkhand to have on the spot assessment of the latest techniques and changing market trends.
He said earlier in November 2010, a group of Handloom weavers were sent to Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh.
