Recent Trends in a Traditional Industry in Sri Lanka: A Case Study on Handloom Industry in Rathnapura District

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.