Threads of Sustainability: A Comparative Analysis of Jamdani (Tangail) and Khadi (Cumilla) as Catalysts for Pollution-Free Community Development in BangladeshAuthor:Muhammad Mahboob Ali, Nazmin Akter
Abstract:
Bangladesh's rich textile heritage offers powerful, yet distinct, models for sustainable development. This study conducts a comparative analysis of two premier handloom sectors: the intricate Jamdani weaving of Tangail and the symbolic Khadi fabric of Cumilla. Framed within green economy principles, the research examines their socio-economic viability, environmental footprint, and potential as engines for pollution-free community development. Employing a mixed-methods approach (July-December 2025), the analysis incorporates surveys, environmental impact assessment, and case studies of both a "GI Gold" Jamdani export initiative and a revived Khadi business plan. Key comparative findings reveal: (1) Both sectors possess underutilized Geographical Indication (GI) status, but face different market challenges—Jamdani contends with high-skill imitation, while Khadi battles generic, low-cost substitutes; (2) their production paradigms, though both low-pollution, differ fundamentally, with Jamdani emphasizing artistic virtuosity and Khadi embodying philosophical self-reliance; and (3) their developmental contexts vary, with Tangail's model being craft-cluster centric and Cumilla's requiring synergistic infrastructure (e.g., airport revival) for growth. The study concludes that while both heritage textiles are potent vehicles for sustainable development, tailored, integrated strategies—recognizing their unique cultural, economic, and infrastructural ecosystems—are essential to unlock their full potential for artisan well-being, cultural preservation, and green economic growth in their respective regions.
Keywords:Tangail Jamdani, Cumilla Khadi, Comparative Analysis, Heritage Textiles, Sustainable Craft, Green Economy, Geographical Indication (GI), Pollution-Free Production, Community Development, Bangladesh Handloom.
DOI:10.46333/ijtc/14/2/6
International Journal of Trade & Commerce (Vol: 14 Issue:2)
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