Abstract:
The handloom industry has a longstanding history in Sri Lanka. The handloom process which is
enriched through various natural resources using average technology in the past, has been subjected to
certain modern changes in recent times. The objective of this study is to identify the trends at the
regional level with regard to the traditional industry of handlooms.
Ayagama, Theppanawa and Moragala were selected as areas of investigation. Primary data were
collected through questionnaires from a survey of 30 families under the purposive sampling method.
Additional data were also gathered from literary sources.
The conclusion arrived at through the study proves that there is a decline in the handloom industry
due to a variety of reasons. The difficulties in accessing the necessary raw materials required for the
industry and the variety of other opportunities available in making better living conditions from
different levels of economic activities have led to the decline of this traditional craft as a viable
industry.
