New Delhi: The University Grants Commission (UGC) appeals to universities to adopt ceremonial robes made from handloom fabrics for special occasions like convocations. In letters dated July 15, 2015, and June 7, 2019, the UGC had initially urged universities to consider the use of handloom fabrics due to their comfort in India’s climate.
Several universities have already heeded the UGC’s suggestion and transitioned to handloom fabrics for ceremonial attire during annual convocations. However, it has come to the UGC’s attention that some institutions continue to maintain their traditional dress codes for convocations.
The UGC underscores the importance of considering handloom fabrics for ceremonial dress, emphasizing that this choice not only promotes comfort but also instills a sense of pride in being Indian. Moreover, it plays a pivotal role in supporting the handloom industry in the country, providing valuable employment opportunities in rural areas.
The appeal encourages universities to not only adopt handloom fabrics but also to share their actions and initiatives on the UGC’s Unified Action Management Portal (UAMP) at https://uamo.ugc.ac.in.