Tamil Nadu Handloom Weaver’s Co-operative Society Limited (Co-optex) has introduced eco friendly saris which are woven using cotton cultivated without using fertilizers or pesticides. This type of cotton is dubbed ‘organic’ and when dyed with chemical free natural or vegetable colours, the fabric becomes non-toxic, non-allergic and environment-friendly. Senior Regional Manager of Co-optex, K Yuvraj said that the cotton saris are woven by traditional weavers of Negammam area in Coimbatore. These were first introduced in Tamil Nadu followed by Andhra Pradesh. The saris have soothing colours, with an attractive border and pallu. These are good for skin and are available in the range of Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000 a sari. These cotton saris appear to have become the new fashion statement of women today. The senior regional manager further said that the photos and addresses of weavers are stuck to each sari. They are also now targeting teenage girls, professionals and homemakers. Tamil Nadu government intends to extend 20 percent rebate on silk and cotton varieties.
