Railways Weaves Heritage Into Travel with Sanganeri Prints

Corporate Update

Railways Weaves Heritage Into Travel with Sanganeri Prints

Indian Railways has launched a transformative pilot project, replacing standard white blanket covers with traditional Sanganeri printed textiles in its air-conditioned coaches. The initiative, first introduced on trains originating from Jaipur, aims to elevate hygiene standards while championing India’s rich artisanal heritage.

These new washable covers feature the iconic floral motifs of Sanganeri hand block printing, a craft that holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This intricate art form from Rajasthan provides a vibrant aesthetic and is designed for easy maintenance, a crucial factor for railway operations. The move is a significant step towards promoting the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, creating a large scale, institutional market for local weavers and artisans.

The Indian textile industry, valued at over US$ 250 billion, contributes nearly 2.3% to the nation's GDP and employs over 45 million people. This project directly supports the handloom sector, a vital part of this economic fabric. Should the Jaipur pilot prove successful, Indian Railways plans a nationwide rollout. This expansion would incorporate other regional textile arts, potentially featuring designs like Andhra Pradesh’s Kalamkari or Odisha's Ikkat, turning train journeys into a showcase of India’s diverse craft map.

This intricate art form from Rajasthan provides a vibrant aesthetic and is designed for easy maintenance, a crucial factor for railway operations. The move is a significant step towards promoting the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, creating a large scale, institutional market for local weavers and artisans.

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