Convocation dress code: UGC appeals to universities to use Handloom fabric robes
Convocation dress code: UGC appeals to universities to use Handloom fabric robes
All universities have been urged by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to replace the traditional convocation ceremonial clothing with Indian handloom robes. The UGC is making this appeal in an attempt to elevate Indian textiles above other clothing in educational ceremonies and to aid the Indian handloom sector.
A letter about the same had been sent to Vice-Chancellors of Indian Universities by the UGC on January 16 2024. The letter reads, ‘The universities are requested to consider using ceremonial robes made out of handloom fabrics for special occasions such as convocation, etc. Apparel made from handloom fabrics is more comfortable in India’s climate.’
Taking the UGC’s suggestion, many universities have already switched to handloom fabrics for ceremonial attire during their annual convocations. However, it is noted that some universities have still not changed their ceremonial dress code during the convocation. It is again requested that the Universities consider switching to handloom fabrics as ceremonial dress. The use of handloom fabrics would not only instill a sense of pride in being Indian but also promote the handloom industry in the country, which provides employment opportunities to many people living in rural areas.
Universities are also requested to share the action taken in this regard, along with photographs, videos, etc on the UAMP portal at https://uamp.ugc.ac.in.
The letter sent by UGC to universities on July 15, 2015, reads:
The Prime Minister of India has emphasized on revival of handloom and the improvement in the earnings of the handloom weavers. Handloom fabric not only forms an integral part of our rich culture and heritage but also provides livelihood opportunities to lakhs of people living in rural areas. Using ceremonial robes made out of handloom fabrics would not only give a sense of pride in being Indian but also be more comfortable in the hot and humid weather. Greater usage of handloom garments for apparel would promote the handloom industry in the country.
Accordingly, all the universities are requested to consider using handloom fabric for ceremonial dresses prescribed for special occasions like convocation etc. This may also be brought to the notice of the colleges affiliated with your university.
The letter sent by UGC to universities on June 7, 2019, reads:
UGC had emphasized using ceremonial robes made out of handloom fabrics which would not only give a sense of pride of being Indian but also be more comfortable in the hot and humid weather. Greater usage of handloom garments for apparel would promote the handloom industry in the country.
All the universities have been accordingly requested to consider using handloom fabric for ceremonial dresses prescribed for special occasions like convocation etc.
