Abstract:
The handloom industry in Northeast (NE) India is deeply intertwined with the
region’s cultural identity, housing 65.2% of the country’s handlooms and 49.8% of
its weavers. It is a major silk production hub, particularly Muga silk, which holds a
geographical indication for Assam. The production process stands out for its use of
eco-friendly yarns and natural dyes, giving the region a distinct identity in
sustainable products. Despite the sector’s significance and its predominantly female
workforce (88% of weavers are women), entrepreneurship remains underdeveloped,
with low representation of women entrepreneurs (All India Census of MSME,
2016). This paper analyzes the role of institutions and policies in promoting
entrepreneurship in NE India's handloom industry, using the framework by
Audretsch et al. (2007).
