International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 09 | Sep 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
Technological awareness & adoption in the Varanasi Handloom SectorA review Anil Kumar1, Dr. Shikha Verma2, 1Reserch Scholar & Assistant Professor, Dept. of Design, Banasthali University (Raj) & Dept. of Textile Design, Dada
Lakhmi Chand State University of Performing & Visual Arts, Rohtak, Haryana, India
2 Assistant Professor, Dept. of Design, Banasthali University, Banathali, Rajasthan, India
---------------------------------------------------------------------***--------------------------------------------------------------------Abstract - The handloom weaving craft of Varanasi is renowned for its intricate Banarasi sarees and rich textile heritage. It is at a critical place where tradition meets technology. This study explores the levels of awareness and the extent of technology adoption among handloom weavers in Varanasi, focusing on tools such as electronic Jacquard machines, digital marketing, and supply chain digitization. The study highlights the role of government schemes, private startups, and social media in shaping technological transformation. The paper also identifies major barriers to adoption, including high costs, digital illiteracy, poor infrastructure, and cultural resistance. While some weavers—particularly younger generations and organized clusters—have begun integrating technology to enhance productivity and reach new markets but widespread adoption of technology remains limited to some weavers. The paper is a review paper, author has reviewed the literature scientifically and presented data systematically. The findings suggest that targeted interventions in training, financial support, infrastructure, and policy reform are essential to support a sustainable and inclusive transition. Ultimately, balanced technology integration can help preserve the artisanal integrity of Varanasi's handloom industry while ensuring its economic viability in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Key Words: Varanasi handloom, Technology adoption, Digital transformation, Electronic Jacquard, Weaver awareness, Digital marketing, Artisan empowerment.
1. INTRODUCTION The Varanasi handloom renowned globally for its beautiful Banarasi brocade weaving technique and silk weaving. It represents one of India’s most important craft-based industries. Traditionally, it sustained through artisanal knowledge which was passed down across generations. This amazing handloom sector has been a cornerstone of cultural heritage as well as local livelihoods source for their life (Katiyar, 2009). However, with growing competition from mechanized textile industries and the expansion of global markets, the survival of this craft increasingly depends on the adoption of appropriate technologies. Technology development in the handloom-based craft sector encompasses multiple dimensions, including the use of improved looms (such as jacquard attachments), design software for motif creation, digital marketing platforms, and ecommerce for broader market access (Ranjan, 2018). The weaver’s awareness and adoption of such technologies can enhance productivity, reduce hard work, and expand market linkages while preserving the authenticity of handwoven fabrics (Mukherjee, 2017). Despite these multiple benefits, studies indicate that many artisans in Varanasi face challenges in adopting technology due to limited education, financial constraints, and resistance to altering traditional practices (Singh & Singh, 2020). The scholars have emphasized that technology adoption in the handloom sector must strike a balance between innovation and tradition. While advanced tools like computer-aided design (CAD) can help diversify motifs and increase efficiency, complete mechanization risks diluting the artisanal identity of Banarasi weaving (Dasgupta, 2019). Therefore, awareness campaigns, training programs, and institutional support are crucial for ensuring that artisans embrace technology in a way that complements rather than replaces their traditional skills (Roy, 2010). In this context, the study of technology awareness and adoption in the Varanasi handloom sector is significant not only for economic sustainability but also for cultural preservation. Understanding how artisans perceive and implement technological changes provides insights into strategies for revitalizing the handloom industry while ensuring its competitiveness in contemporary markets.
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