Authors : Pradeep Kumar; Sukumar P.; Sumit Kumar; S. M. Hukkeri; S. Periyasamy

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 12 - December

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25dec545

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Abstract : The handloom weaving sector is highly unorganized and decentralized. Most handloom weavers belong to the marginalized and weaker sections of society, working both to meet household needs and contribute to the textile industry. They play a vital role in preserving the traditional craft of handloom weaving, which varies across different states in the country. The artistry and intricacy of hand-woven fabrics are unmatched, with certain weaves and designs still beyond the capability of modern machinery. Handloom weaving demands high skill & labour to operate the loom which demoralizing the youth in adopting this traditional. India’s rich textile heritage clusters are shrinking due to this fact. So, the labor-intensive nature of handloom weaving, combined with non-ergonomic tools and workspaces, discouraging the younger generation from adopting this traditional craft, leading to the gradual decline of India's rich textile heritage. Ministry of Textiles & its sub-ordinate offices like Central Silk Board & Weavers Service centers etc. are continuously working to uplift the weaver’s life standard by providing upgraded machineries on subsidized rate. In last 10-15 years’ efforts was taken to modernize the traditional loom set up with upgraded loom set ups like CATD (Computer Added Textile Designing), PLM (Pneumatic Lifting Mechanism & Electronic Jacquard etc. Traditionally, weavers have relied on mechanical jacquards with limited hook capacities; however, increasing market demand for intricate, multi-colour, and fine-patterned designs has pushed the adoption of advanced systems such as Pneumatic Lifting Mechanisms (PLM) and Electronic Jacquards. This study provides a comparative analysis of three jacquard Mechanisms-Mechanical (Traditional), Mechanical with PLM, and Electronic-based on lifting force, ergonomic comfort, design flexibility, productivity, and income enhancement. Real-time force measurements using a digital weighing system and structured interviews across multiple weaving locations form the basis of this assessment. Findings demonstrate that PLM and electronic systems substantially reduce drudgery, enable complex design weaving, and improve productivity, resulting in a 25–50% rise in income. The study underscores the importance of technological upgradation to sustain the economic and cultural vitality of the Kancheepuram handloom sector.

Keywords : Handloom, Jacquard, PLM, Weaver, Silk, Cluster, Kanchipuram, Pneumatic.

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