The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) has initiated a major inter-regional textile collaboration aimed at blending the North East’s renowned Eri silk with Rajasthan’s iconic Kota Doria fabric to create a premium handloom product for domestic and international markets.
As part of the initiative, DoNER Secretary Sanjay Jaju visited the Kaithoon Common Facility Centre in Kota on May 17 along with Kota District Collector Piyush Samaria and Managing Director of North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation, Mara Kocho.
The delegation interacted with weavers, artisans and fashion designers while observing the traditional weaving techniques behind Kota Doria, globally known for its lightweight texture, transparent weave and signature check patterns.
Officials discussed integrating Eri silk, often referred to as “peace silk” for its eco-friendly and ethical production process, with Kota Doria to create a high-value fabric combining luxury, comfort, durability and heritage craftsmanship. The initiative is expected to generate new livelihood opportunities for artisans and weavers in both Rajasthan and the North Eastern states.
During the visit, the delegation also met Om Birla, who described Kota Doria as a symbol of the Hadoti region’s cultural identity and craftsmanship. He said the fusion with Eri silk would create “a new identity to two rich handloom traditions” while preserving traditional weaving practices and promoting sustainable economic opportunities, especially for women and rural artisans.
According to DoNER, the collaboration is envisioned as a model of textile innovation that combines regional strengths to produce globally competitive, sustainable and handcrafted Indian fabrics.
Preparations are also underway for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation and Rajasthan’s District Industries Centre to support joint design development, artisan training, branding and market linkage initiatives.
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 5F Vision — Farm to Fibre, Fibre to Fabric, Fabric to Fashion and Fashion to Foreign — and the Make in India mission aimed at strengthening India’s traditional textile industry.
