Sambalpuri Handloom Weavers’ Livelihood: An Analysis of Western Odisha Clusters, India

Abstract

The study aims to examine the livelihood of Sambalpuri handloom weavers of Western Odisha, India. By using the primary field survey data and analysing both the qualitative and quantitative data, it presents the socio-economic conditions of the weavers. A binary choice model is used to analyse the livelihood of weavers. The analysis shows that although the price of the product is quite high, almost all the weavers are not satisfied with the amount of the emoluments that they receive. The middleman plays a critical role in marketing. But the actual benefits from marketing the Sambalpuri handloom products are going to middleman rather than weavers. It recommends making necessary policies both by the central as well as the state governments to rescue these handloom weavers.