The craftsmanship of tribal women from the Melghat region of Amravati district has received national recognition, with a specially designed shawl made using solar-powered spinning wheels being presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as welcome gift during the inaugural ceremony of the 'Bharat Renewable Energy Summit 2026' at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The shawl, featuring attractive natural leaf prints, produced under the ‘Kutir’ brand of Khadi Gramodyog in Melghat, was presented to Prime Minister by Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy The summit, being held from November 2 to 5, has brought together representatives from more than 130 countries, over 40 ministers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, investors, researchers and experts from the energy sector.

 

The Amravati Decentralised Solar Charkha Cluster, initiated by the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board, is an important initiative aimed at providing sustainable livelihood opportunities to women in rural and tribal areas. The project is being implemented through the Kasturba Solar Khadi Mahila Samiti, a women-led organisation. Through this initiative, tribal and rural women in Melghat are being encouraged to produce yarn using solar-powered spinning wheels, manufacture fabrics on handlooms and undertake various artistic processes on textiles. The specially crafted shawl represents a blend of traditional craftsmanship, modern innovation and environmental sustainability. The recognition at the national level reflects the efforts of Melghat’s women artisans in translating the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Vocal for Local’ into action.