A STUDY ON CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY TRADITIONAL HANDLOOM WEAVERS IN MEGHALAYA

Handloom weaving is a significant industry in Meghalaya, a major sector that plays a crucial role in rural employment and income generation. It is also integral to the West Garo Hills district. Nevertheless, the industry faces substantial challenges from more affordable, machine-made fabrics that threaten traditional weavers\' competitiveness. Additionally, weavers are confronted with health risks arising from extended working hours, inadequate infrastructure, and fluctuating incomes, thereby endangering their livelihoods. In the marketplace, dependence on middlemen and intense competition impede growth and profitability. Collectively, these production and marketing obstacles exert considerable pressure on the handloom weavers. This study emphasizes the primary difficulties encountered by handloom weavers and underlines the pressing necessity for policies that enhance market access, provide financial and health support, ensure equitable trade practices and preserve the cultural and economic significance of this traditional handloom weavers through targeted measures. KEYWORD: Handloom, Production, Marketing, Problem, Garo Hills