National Handloom Day: Odisha govt pushes for women empowerment through Kotpad’s Mirigan textile
In the Koraput district of Odisha, the government is aiding traditional weavers, particularly female ones, in producing goods using the local Mirigan cloth. This handwoven fabric is utilized to make numerous products, such as clothing and accessories.
The government is not merely teaching women to weave, but also instructing them in tailoring, making them self-sufficient. The objective is not just skill development, but to provide these women with a sustainable income and motivate others to join.
Women in the Kotpad block are being taught to make various clothing pieces, like blazers, jackets, and dresses, using Mirigan cloth. Currently, approximately 19 different items are being made from this fabric.
“Women love Mirigan cloth. Its designs and borders captivate customers. It is used to make long dresses, scarves, and vanity bags,” said Madhusmita Mishra, an artist.
Saraswati Gouda, another artist, shares, “After passing my matriculation exam, I started sewing dresses.
We used to buy textiles from Kotpad and give them shape.”
There has been a rising preference for handwoven fabrics among consumers. Now, there is a growing demand for Kotpad’s Mirigan fabric from the Koraput district.
On National Handloom Day, plans are being drafted to promote Mirigan fabric and raise its demand.
Young women and housewives are being empowered through individual tailoring training to become self-sufficient. Plans are also underway to establish dedicated centers and training centers for this purpose.
“We have changed the Jeypore Panchaya Samiti workshop into a Kotpad’s Mirigan theme. We have used Mirigan in every aspect. Around 50 women will be provided with stitching training in each batch,” said Shakti Mohapatra, Jeypore BDO.
