Why Did the Craft Decline?
The main reason for the decline is migration . Young people from Bomkai village have moved to other states for work and business. They look for better-paying jobs in cities. Weaving is hard work and does not pay very well. Many families left the craft behind. Over time, only a few families remained. The craft has survived only because of the dedication of Keshab Nayak, Sushanta Kumar Nayak, and their families. The government now wants to reverse this trend. By training new weavers and providing better support, they hope to bring the craft back.
A Human Touch: A Weaver’s Story
Keshab Nayak has been weaving Bomkai sarees for more than 40 years. His hands know every knot and every pattern. He learned the craft from his father, who learned from his grandfather. But now, his sons have moved to Surat to work in a textile factory. They earn more money there. Keshab feels sad that no one in his family will carry on the tradition. He says, "Bomkai is not just a saree. It is our identity." The revival plan gives him hope. Maybe young people will return to weaving. Maybe the looms will run again in Bomkai village.
Subarnapur: Another Bomkai Centre
While Bomkai village is the birthplace, Subarnapur district is also known as another centre of Bomkai weaving. Weavers there produce similar sarees with their own local variations. The GI tag covers both areas. The revival plan may also benefit weavers in Subarnapur indirectly. But the main focus right now is on Ganjam district, where the original tradition is at greatest risk.
Importance of Geographical Indication (GI) Status
The Bomkai saree has GI status under the Geographical Indications of Goods Act, 1999. The GI tag protects the saree’s unique identity. It prevents other regions from copying and selling their products as "Bomkai". The tag also helps weavers get a better price for their authentic products. However, the GI tag alone cannot save a craft. Active government support, training, and market links are needed. That is exactly what the revival plan provides.
Exam-Focused Points
| Topic |
Key Details |
| Project name |
Revival of Languishing Products (Cotton Bomkai Saree) |
| State |
Odisha |
| Department |
Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts department |
| Location of original Bomkai |
Bomkai village, Ganjam district, Odisha |
| Other Bomkai centre |
Subarnapur |
| GI status |
Yes, under Geographical Indications of Goods Act, 1999 |
| Current active families in Bomkai village |
Only two: Keshab Nayak
Month: Current Affairs - May 23, 2026
Category: Art & Culture, Indian Heritage
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