Paper short abstract:

This paper aims at discussing traditional knowledge related to weaving resource generation, cycle of resource production, technology of production and cultural use as well as meaning of those productions. The paper further aims at analyzing the gender relations of weaving production to unfold the regulatory behavior and at the same time traditional as well as modern trade relations of tribes of Arunachal Pradesh and its neighbourhood.

Paper long abstract:

The weaving is the world of women and that is culturally considered as women's job at home, in northeast Indian plains and hills communities in general and Arunachal Pradesh in particular. All communities maintain tradition of weaving, which is basically colorful loin-loom tradition and at present that is part of cultural identity. The tribal communities of that state (twenty six major tribes and around hundred sub-tribes /sub-groups) are mostly weave cotton, and earlier there were tradition of use of other natural fibers and barks for making cloths. The Know-How of simple loin -loom technology is part of traditional knowledge and that nature's friendly technology is handy and low cost. Post independent era of development brought some changes in the weaving traditions and technology and at present women are to an extent depending on market for raw material. The weaving includes everything essential and utilized at home by all family members. At this background, this paper aims at discussing traditional knowledge related to weaving resource generation, cycle of resource production, technology of production and cultural use as well as meaning of those productions. The paper further aims at analyzing the gender relations of weaving production to unfold the regulatory behavior and at the same time traditional as well as modern trade relations of tribes of Arunachal Pradesh and its neighbourhood.