The traditional khadi fabric of Comilla has officially received Geographical Indication (GI) recognition, marking a significant achievement for the region's long-standing textile heritage. The Department of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks under the Ministry of Industries formally handed over the GI certificate in an event held in Dhaka on Wednesday, which included 25 products from various regions, with Comilla’s khadi being one of them. The announcement was met with celebration among weavers, traders, and local residents, many of whom see the recognition as a long-awaited step toward preserving and revitalizing the industry.

Chintaharan Debnath, an elderly weaver from Debidwar, expressed his emotional attachment to the tradition, stating that khadi runs in their blood. However, he lamented the current state of the industry, pointing to the shortage of cotton and labor that has forced many handlooms to shut down. He emphasized the need for government subsidies and support to restore the once-vibrant handloom sector.

Khadi, which gained prominence during Mahatma Gandhi's Swadeshi movement in 1921, became a symbol of national identity and self-reliance. Since then, it has been widely appreciated for its eco-friendly qualities and breathable comfort. The hand-spun and handwoven nature of khadi makes it both sustainable and culturally significant.

Pradip Kumar Raha, owner of Comilla Khadi Ghar, said the product has long enjoyed special appeal among both local and international buyers. He believes that the GI recognition will open new avenues for export and enhance the global reputation of Comilla’s khadi. According to him and other stakeholders, while Comilla was once home to hundreds of active handlooms in areas like Chandina and Debidwar, these operations have largely ceased due to the dominance of machine-made khadi and lack of investment in traditional methods.

Weavers and industry experts are urging the government to intervene with supportive policies and funding to reinvigorate handloom-based khadi production. Without such intervention, they fear that a rich cultural and economic tradition may fade away despite its new-found recognition.

Deputy Commissioner Md. Amirul Kaisar noted that this is not the first time a Comilla product has received GI status. Last year, the district’s famous ‘rosomalai’ was added to the GI list. He also mentioned that efforts are underway to bring the pottery tradition of Bijoypur under GI certification, which would further bolster the region’s reputation as a cultural and artisanal hub.

The local administration stated that three products from Comilla have been proposed for GI certification, and with two already approved, the process to promote Comilla as a regional brand is well underway.

Residents and artisans are optimistic that the GI certification will not only revitalize the local khadi industry but also place Comilla on the global map for high-quality, handwoven textiles. With the proper backing and international marketing, many believe Comilla’s khadi can regain its past glory and establish a strong presence in global markets.