Strengthening Ethical & Sustainable Sourcing

Amitava Basak, a traditional handloom weaver from Nadia district, West Bengal, represents the new generation of artisans committed to sustainable and ethical production. His weaving unit, rooted in a family tradition of fine cotton and silk handloom weaving, faced growing challenges in meeting the evolving global demand for eco-friendly and compliant textile products. Limited access to safe raw materials and reliable suppliers of sustainable yarns and dyes had constrained his ability to diversify products and reach Fair Trade and international markets.

Through Sarba Shanti Ayog’s (SSA) sourcing facilitation initiative, Amitava Basak’s enterprise was linked with verified suppliers of 100% polyester-free yarn, high-quality linen yarn, natural and AZO-free dyes, and non-toxic textile auxiliaries. SSA’s technical team also provided guidance on safe handling and documentation processes to ensure compliance with international standards. This intervention enabled the unit to shift toward environmentally responsible production, eliminating synthetic fibers and harmful chemicals from the process while maintaining product durability and color vibrancy.

As a result, Amitava’s weaving unit not only strengthened its environmental credentials but also expanded its market opportunities through SSA’s sister organization, Sasha, connecting with conscious buyers who value sustainable and ethically made textiles. The enterprise now stands as a model for responsible sourcing and eco-compliant production in the region, demonstrating how traditional handloom clusters can integrate modern sustainability standards while preserving heritage craftsmanship.