Livelihood security of women handloom weavers in Karimnagar district of Telangana: A pilot study

Abstract

Handloom weaving is one of India’s oldest and most culturally rich livelihoods, with women forming the backbone of this sector. This pilot study was conducted among 30 women handloom weavers in Karimnagar district of Telangana to test the suitability and reliability of the Livelihood Security Index (LSI) and to understand the socio-demographic profile and factors influencing livelihood security. A structured interview schedule was used, and the tool’s reliability (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.614) confirmed its adequacy for further use. The findings revealed that weaving is largely managed by middle-aged, married women with low levels of formal education. Most respondents depend on weaving as their full-time occupation, yet earn a low monthly income, mainly between Rs. 3,000–5,000. A large proportion worked on leased looms, indicating limited asset ownership. Livelihood security was found to be low for more than half of the respondents due to irregular income, rising raw material costs, and weak market access. Correlation analysis showed that education, weaving income, possession of a loom, and full-time engagement significantly improved livelihood security, while age, type of dwelling, and family income showed no meaningful influence. Overall, the pilot study highlights the need for stronger economic support, skill development, and market linkages for women weavers before undertaking the main survey.