Dispur bans power loom gamosas, mekhela sadors, announces crackdown

The Assam Government has announced a massive crackdown on the sale of power loom gamosas, mekhela sadors, and aronais from March 1 to April 14 following a larger effort to raise awareness of the traditional weaving industry and discourage the use of machine-made products.

Announcing a crackdown on traders selling power loom-made products on the eve and during Rongali Bihu, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the move will benefit local weavers and artisans who can sell their products.

The chief minister also announced that from next year, a seven-day Bihu festival would be held annually in Sarusajai stadium. The event will promote traditional Assamese culture and performances.

The chief minister asked Bihu celebration committees not to collect money from people to organize the events that take place between 15 April to 15 May across the state, adding that the state govt will provide ₹1.5 lakh to Bihu committees that are more than 10 years old.

 “Our focus this year is to popularize Bihu through advertisements and attract a large number of tourists. From next year, we will organize seven-day Bihu events in the Assamese tradition”, added CM Sarma.