State PCS - West Bengal (WBCS)

• 09 Aug 2025

‘Binamrata’ Initiative

Why in News? 

On 4th August 2025, the Department of Posts (West Bengal Circle) in partnership with the Philatelic Congress of India and Rotary International, supported the heartwarming letter-writing initiative ‘Binamrata’. 

Key Points 

• About: The ‘Binamrata’ initiative aimed to revive the art of handwritten letters, focusing on personal expressions of gratitude. 
  • This unique project invited students of Classes IX and X to pen handwritten letters to their parents or teachers, expressing their heartfelt gratitude, reviving the nearly forgotten charm of personal correspondence.  
  • More than 5,000 students from 63 schools across the state participated in the event, showcasing deep emotional connect and creativity through their letters. 
• Other Initiatives: In its continued efforts to promote the art of letter writing in the age of social media, the Department also organizes other annual competitions such as Dhai Akhar Letter Writing Contest and the UPU International Letter Writing Competition for Young People. 

Philatelic Congress of India (PCI) 

• The Philatelic Congress of India (PCI) is the National Philatelic Federation of Philatelists and Philatelic Societies in India.  
• It was formed in Calcutta (Kolkata) on 29th December 1975 during the National Philatelic Exhibition INPEX-1975.  
• PCI was established as a National Federation in consultation and association of the Department of Post (DOP).  

Rotary International 

• Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. 

11th National Handloom Day

Why in News? 

On 7th August 2025, the Ministry of Textiles celebrated India's handloom sector during the 11th National Handloom Day (NHD), focusing on the theme 'Weaving Innovation into Tradition.' 

• On 11th NHD, at Bharat Mandapam, the President of India presented the prestigious 5 Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and 19 National Handloom Awards for 2024. 

National Handloom Day 

• Established on 7th August 2015, NHD marks the momentous occasion of the Swadeshi Movement, which began on 7th August 1905, encouraging indigenous handloom weaving industries. 
  • NHD celebrates the skilled craftsmanship and creativity behind Indian handlooms, recognizing their significance as a cherished cultural legacy. 
• In partnership with the National Handloom Development Corporation (NHDC), the Ministry also introduced the Exclusive Handloom Expo and the "Haat on Wheels" mobile retail initiative. 
• The "Know Your Weaves Campaign 2025" was also launched by the Ministry of Textiles as a week-long event from 1st -7st August 2025 in celebration of National Handloom Day. 

Handloom Awards  

• About: The awards aim to honour excellence in the handloom industry, celebrating individuals and organizations that set benchmarks in craftsmanship, innovation, and contribution to the sector's development. 
• Categories of awards: 

Aspect	Sant Kabir Handloom Award	National Handloom Award
Purpose	Recognizes outstanding handloom weavers for significant contributions to sector growth and tradition.	Celebrates weavers for exceptional craftsmanship, dedication, and innovation.
Eligibility	Outstanding handloom weavers; may include national/state awardees, merit certificate holders, or extraordinary contributors.	Weavers with exemplary craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication.
Cash	Rs. 3.5 lakh	Rs. 2 lakh

Handloom Sector 

• About: The Handloom sector remains a cornerstone of India’s rural economy and cultural heritage, providing employment to over 35 lakh people, with 70% being women. 
• Global Presence: India is the world's sole major producer of handloom fabrics at a commercial scale, accounting for nearly 95% of global handwoven fabric production. 
  • India’s handloom exports continue to find strong demand across global markets, reaching over 20 countries.  
  • In the financial year 2024-25, the United States remained the largest destination, accounting for ₹331.56 crore worth of exports.  
• Major Schemes: 
  • National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP): It aims to promote the sustainable growth of handloom weavers in and outside recognised clusters by forming self-reliant and competitive units. 
  • Raw Material Supply Scheme (RMSS): It aims to support handloom weavers by ensuring the availability of quality yarn at affordable prices through the following key objectives and components. 
  • MUDRA Loan: This scheme offers subsidised loans to weavers through banks at a low interest rate of 6 per cent.