Chief Minister M K Stalin presented State-level awards to the best handloom weavers in silk and cotton categories, along with awards for the best handloom exporters for the year 2024–25, recognising excellence in Tamil Nadu’s traditional handloom sector.The first prize for the best silk handloom weaver was awarded to M R Gopinathan of the Arani Silk Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society. The second prize went to members of the Thirubuvanam and Kanchipuram Anna Silk Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society, represented by V Rajalakshmi and P Gowri. The third prize was awarded to members of the Thirubuvanam and Tirupur Silk Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society.
The Chief Minister presented cheques worth Rs 20 lakh along with certificates of appreciation to the five awardees. The awards aim to encourage traditional artisans and strengthen the handloom industry, which is a key source of livelihood for thousands of families across the State.
Minister for Handlooms and Textiles R Gandhi and Chief Secretary N Muruganandam were present at the function.