Human Resource Challenges and Opportunities in the Indigenous Khadi Handloom Sector for Textile Tourism

Abstract

The Khadi handloom sector is an integral part of India's textile industry. This chapter explores the challenges and opportunities in the Khadi handloom sector, focusing on human resource management strategies to empower local communities and promote sustainable textile tourism. To address this issue, this study investigated the challenges faced by the indigenous Khadi handloom sector in Kerala concerning textile tourism, using a qualitative research methodology. A purposive sampling method was employed to gather data, and a structured questionnaire was administered to 120 weavers from four different textile weaving centers in Northern Kerala. The findings of this study reveal that textile business hubs require effective marketing strategies to enhance textile tourism. To address these challenges and capitalize on the opportunities, the study recommends investing in skill development and training programs, modernizing infrastructure, implementing branding and marketing initiatives, and fostering collaborative efforts between the government and local communities.