HRD Minister Nara Lokesh continues to push for the growth of Mangalagiri weaves, giving them top priority in his constituency. He sees the welfare of Mangalagiri weavers as a key responsibility and has taken several steps to support them.
Lokesh explained that the government has partnered with Tata Trust to create fresh colour palettes and modern designs for Mangalagiri weaves. He added that marketing strategies from Tata Group were being used to expand their reach and improve sales.
Through the weavers’ school, income levels of weavers have already gone up by 40–50%. Lokesh urged members of the Legislative Assembly to visit the school and see how these initiatives are changing lives. He stressed the importance of building stronger market linkages to sustain this growth.
Lokesh also reminded everyone that even while in opposition, he personally funded new looms for weavers. For over three and a half years, he has been working to raise their incomes through focused programmes at the weavers’ school.
As he spoke with passion, Lokesh shared that both he and CM Chandrababu regularly gift Mangalagiri shawls to Indian dignitaries, including Prime Minister Modi, and to guests from abroad. He also mentioned gifting a Mangalagiri weave at Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu’s daughter’s wedding, which hhe attended with father Chandrababu and mother Bhuwaneshwari.
