Guwahati, 13 April (HS): Ahead of the Rongali Bihu festival, markets across Assam have been flooded with powerloom-made Gamosas, raising concerns over the impact on traditional handloom weavers.

In a major enforcement drive, the Handloom Department conducted an drive in the Ganeshguri area of Guwahati against the sale of powerloom Gamosas. Officials targeted temporary roadside vendors as well as established shops suspected of selling machine-made products.

During the operation, a large quantity of powerloom Gamosas, reportedly manufactured outside the state, were seized from various outlets. Authorities stated that these products were being illegally sold in the market, often misrepresented as authentic handwoven Gamosas.

Officials further revealed that some traders were deceiving customers by concealing powerloom Gamosas among genuine handmade ones and selling them as traditional products. The department reiterated its commitment to protecting the interests of local artisans and preserving Assam’s rich handloom heritage.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash