Bhuttico chief flags nationwide dip in count of weavers

Satya Prakash Thakur, chairman of Bhuttico and former minister, on Tuesday highlighted a stark contrast within the weaving sector in the country.

He was addressing the Thakur Ved Ram National Awards ceremony for 2025-26 in remembrance of the 105th birth anniversary of Bhuttico founder.

Thakur said while the number of weavers in Himachal Pradesh has increased compared to other states, India has witnessed a dramatic decline from three crore weavers, out of a population of 35 crore at the time of Independence, to merely 35 lakh today.

The national awards, he explained, serve as a tribute to Bhuttico’s founder and celebrate outstanding contributions across literature, art, culture, journalism, cooperative societies, handicrafts and handloom. He congratulated all those honoured on the occasion and noted that Bhuttico’s products have gained national and international recognition due to their quality.

An award winner, Subhash Chand Arya, a resident of Nagaur, Rajasthan, praised Bhuttico for its efforts in presenting international and national awards. Sanjeev Sharma, digital editor of Hindi Daily Savera, Jalandhar, and Vavinder Vashisht emphasised how such recognitions inspire others to excel in their fields. Hemender Bali, local editor of Amar Ujala, Shimla, from Kumarsain, expressed admiration for Bhuttico and urged other established organisations in the region to follow suit.

Renowned litterateur Ganesh Gani of Kullu lauded the Bhuttico chairman as a visionary leader essential to nation’s development. Savita Sehgal of Sirmaur praised Bhuttico’s commitment to preserving Himachal’s cultural heritage through handloom products, particularly the iconic Kullu shawls and caps, which have become synonymous with Himachal worldwide.

Yatin Pandit of Kullu highlighted the role of such recognitions in promoting various fields across society.

A cultural evening was organised in memory of Sher-e-Kullavi Lal Chand Prarthi, featuring local artistes who presented glimpses of hill culture.

The event was attended by a large number of dignitaries, litterateurs, artists and members of the weaving community, creating an atmosphere filled with cultural and respectful energy.