What Is the Handloom Mark?
The Handloom Mark scheme was launched by the Government of India in 2006 to provide a collective identity to handwoven products and help buyers ascertain genuine handwoven products.
Why Does It Matter?
For shoppers buying a handloom saree, understanding recognized identification can provide more useful information than relying only on marketing language.
What It Does Not Mean
A Handloom Mark should not be treated as a universal quality score. It relates to the handwoven identity of the product, while quality also depends on material, weaving, finishing and craftsmanship.
What Else Should You Check?
Check fabric composition, saree measurements, border and pallu construction, zari, seller information and care instructions.
Handloom Mark vs GI
These are different concepts. A GI identifies products associated with a geographical origin and defined characteristics, while Handloom Mark relates to identifying handwoven products.
Buying Online
Ask the seller for appropriate product information if the saree is being marketed specifically as handloom.
Final Takeaway
The Handloom Mark is useful knowledge for anyone buying Indian handloom sarees, but it should be considered alongside the full product description.