PM Narendra Modi gifts traditional Eri silk stole for Giorgia Meloni: Know its history and cultural importance

As global diplomacy increasingly embraces culture and craftsmanship, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s thoughtful gift to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has now become the talk of the town. Putting India’s rich textile heritage into the spotlight, PM Narendra Modi gifted an Eri silk stole to Giorgia Meloni, which is not just another textile but a piece that holds a beautiful tale and significance, with its roots in Assam. Here’s everything to know about this textile.

Often referred to as ‘ahimsa silk’ or ‘peace silk’, Eri silk is one of India’s most sustainable textiles, known for its ethical production process and handcrafted legacy. Unlike conventional silk production, Eri silk is harvested without killing the silkworms. It is admired for its luxurious texture but is still quite a lesser-known piece compared to the other silk types found in the market.
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Eri silk traces its roots to Assam’s indigenous weaving communities and has been an integral part of the region’s cultural heritage for centuries. It is traditionally woven by local artisans on the handlooms and represents craftsmanship and sustainability. Having strong associations with the Assamese heritage, you can opt for shawls, stoles, mekhela chadors, and other ceremonial attire out of it. It also supports thousands of rural artisans and weaving families across the Northeast Indian belt.
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Eri silk is known for its cruelty-free production process. Other silk-making methods usually boil the silkworms alive inside their cocoons to preserve the long silk fibres. Eri silk's cultivation allows the moth to emerge from the cocoon before starting the production process. This approach connects Eri silk production to the idea of 'ahimsa' or non-violence, which has contributed to the increased global interest in Eri silk.
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The purpose of the gift is to present India’s attempt at promoting its indigenous culture and sustainable regional craftsmanship on an international level. The use of silk also matched perfectly with Italy’s deep-rooted relationship with luxurious fabrics and fashion, heritage, and craftsmanship in couture. This made the present culturally meaningful for both nations. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also praised this small gesture by PM Narendra Modi and called it a proud moment for Assam’s weaving heritage.
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