- APCO joins Amazon, Flipkart, JioMart & ONDC to sell handlooms online

-  Online sales cross Rs 45 lakh; 40 APCO showrooms linked to e-commerce

 -  Weavers trained to produce modern ready-made collections for youth appeal

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh is turning to e-commerce to revive the handloom sector, aiming to provide year-round income for weavers while making traditional fabrics more appealing to younger consumers.

Handlooms and Textiles Minister S. Savita announced that APCO (Andhra Pradesh State Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society) has partnered with Amazon, Flipkart, JioMart, and ONDC to sell traditional and ready-made handloom products online. Customers can now purchase handlooms and have them delivered directly to their homes.

Within a short time, APCO has achieved Rs.45 lakh in online sales. To strengthen the move, 40 APCO showrooms across the state have been connected with major e-commerce platforms, in addition to the 92 showrooms already running nationwide.“Today’s consumers depend heavily on e-commerce. By entering this space, we are ensuring steady employment for weavers while keeping pace with changing markets,” Minister Savita said.

Traditionally known for sarees, dhotis, and towels, Andhra Pradesh handlooms are now diversifying into ready-made wear such as kurtas, short kurtas, gowns, and linen shirts. Premium collections like Pochampally, Dharmavaram, and Mangalagiri silks are being marketed alongside these new designs.

To meet fashion trends, the government has roped in designers to create modern collections, including kalamkari sarees, digital prints, embroidered pieces, and children’s wear. Online and offline channels are being expanded to attract youth, women, and families.

The state is also collaborating with Co-optex, Tata Taneira, and Aditya Birla Group to widen marketing avenues. Training programmes are being conducted to equip weavers for ready-made garment production, ensuring both financial stability and dignity of work for traditional artisans.