Guwahati: As India Energy Week (IEW) 2026 commenced in Goa on Tuesday, bringing together global policymakers, industry leaders and investors to deliberate on the future of energy, a parallel narrative of community empowerment is unfolding through the showcasing of indigenous handloom artisans from Assam.
Under the initiative ‘Threads of Assam – Woven by Baidews’, traditional handwoven textiles created by women artisans from Assam’s oil-producing regions are being presented at India’s flagship energy exhibition and conference.
The programme has supported nearly 5,000 women artisans, enabling financial independence while providing national and global exposure to Assam’s rich handloom heritage.
Now in its fourth edition, India Energy Week is being held from January 27 to 30 under the patronage of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
While the event focuses on energy security, sustainability and the global energy transition, the presence of grassroots artisans adds a deeply human dimension to the global platform.
Women entrepreneurs from the Borchapori and Agchamua handloom centres—supported through community development programmes of Cairn Oil & Gas—are showcasing and selling a diverse range of traditional products.
These include gamosas, mekhela chadors, jackets, saris, scarves, handcrafted bags, pillow covers and other indigenous textile creations crafted from traditional silks such as muga and eri, reflecting generations of Assamese craftsmanship.
The weavers are household entrepreneurs who have received structured training and livelihood support through corporate social responsibility initiatives of Cairn Oil & Gas, helping them transform traditional skills into sustainable income opportunities.
As India Energy Week 2026 deliberates on building a secure, sustainable and affordable energy future, the presence of indigenous women artisans from Assam underscores how India’s growth story is strongest when local traditions, women-led enterprises and global opportunities are woven together—taking the journey from local to global.