Microsoft partners with Telangana handloom weavers for ‘ReWeave’ project

By

Maverick Martins

Published
Jan 21, 2019

Microsoft has partnered with handloom weavers from the state of Telangana for project ‘ReWeave’ to help the weavers widen their customer base and boost sales.
 

The technology giant has launched a new e-commerce portal "re-weave.in" under this project which will give the weavers a platform to showcase and sell their traditional designs and products online across India. The project will also help weavers financially to set up their businesses.
 
Commenting on the initiative, Anil Bhansali, managing director, Microsoft India (R&D) in a statement said, "With the introduction of our new e-commerce platform, digital empowerment centres and the new design curriculum, the weavers will be able to build on the rich handloom heritage of India and also reach out to a wider customer base.”

Jayesh Ranjan, principal secretary, Industries & IT, Telangana, added, "These initiatives like e-commerce marketplace and design training will enable weaver communities to sustain themselves and provide livelihood to artisans. This also is a practical solution to motivate the younger generation of weavers to continue with their traditions and not divert into other professions.”
 
Microsoft has also collaborated with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and will provide digital training in handloom design at the institute. The company has said that already over 100 handloom weavers have completed the specialised course.