The document discusses India's handloom industry. It notes that handloom weaving started in India between 5000-3000 BC and remains an important cottage industry. The handloom sector provides the largest non-farm employment in rural India, engaging over 65 lakh people. It accounts for 14.9% of total cloth production in the country. Each state has distinctive handloom styles and products like Sambalpuri sarees in Odisha. While handloom faces competition from powerlooms, it continues to be important for rural livelihoods and showcasing Indian culture.