The nine-day Nav-Trinjan Organic Cotton and Handloom Khadi Exhibition and Sale, organized by Punjab-based NGO Kheti Virasat Mission (KVM) in Jaito from June 20 to 28 on Kabir Jayanti, is putting organic cotton and khadi at the forefront of sustainable fashion. The event is more than a fabric exhibition—it aims to rebuild the entire value chain from PGS-India certified organic non-BT desi cotton cultivation to handspun, handwoven khadi, while creating sustainable livelihoods for farmers, rural women, artisans, and weavers across Punjab.
Reviving Punjab's Traditional Trinjan Gatherings
Inspired by Punjab's traditional Trinjan gatherings, where women spun cotton and shared knowledge and culture, Nav-Trinjan seeks to revive this heritage by placing women at the centre of textile production and rural regeneration. The exhibition showcases a living model of Gram Swaraj and women's empowerment, as described by KVM.
Weaving School Trains New Artisans
A key highlight is the Nav-Trinjan Bunkar Pathshala (Weaving School), where master artisans Shinder Kaur and Gurmeet Kaur are training young boys and girls from weaving families to preserve Punjab's fading handloom traditions. Several trainees have already become skilled weavers and are earning livelihoods through this initiative.
Certified Authenticity and Sustainable Products
The initiative, led by Rupsi Garg, Director of KVM's Rural Development and Heritage Conservation Division, has earned CRAFTMARK certification, certifying the authenticity of its handmade products. The exhibition features organic cotton fabrics, handspun yarn, handwoven khadi, traditional khes, dupattas, stoles, and naturally dyed textiles, with each product reflecting the contributions of the farmer, spinner, dyer, and weaver behind it.
Promoting Sustainable Alternatives to Fast Fashion
At a time when fast fashion and synthetic fibres are under global scrutiny, KVM is promoting a sustainable alternative through this exhibition. By supporting organic cotton and khadi, the event encourages eco-friendly and ethical textile practices while boosting rural livelihoods.
