Suchitra Ella Takes Over As AP Handloom, Handicrafts Advisor

Vijayawada: Co-founder and Managing Director of Bharat Biotech Suchitra Ella on Friday assumed as the Honorary Advisor for Handlooms & Handicrafts Development to the Government of Andhra Pradesh here.

The honorary position comes with a Cabinet rank for a period of two years. In her new role, Ella will provide strategic guidance to strengthen, modernise, and globally position the state’s handloom and handicrafts sector—while supporting artisan livelihoods and enabling economic development through traditional industries. Expressing her gratitude, Ella thanked Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu for the opportunity to contribute to one of the State’s most treasured sectors. She outlined a clear and ambitious vision to elevate Andhra Pradesh’s handloom and handicraft sector—an industry known for its skilled artisans, and traditional techniques.

“Andhra Pradesh’s handlooms are not just threads and fabric—they are stories, skills, and a living heritage,” said Ella. “My goal is to amplify every handloom cluster reach, redesign for modern relevance, and enhance the lives of our artisans, artists through training, innovation, and global exposure.”

On her first day after taking charge, Ella visited APCO, where she interacted with the employees and reviewed the traditional weaves of Andhra Pradesh. She then proceeded to Lepakshi, where she explored the exquisite handicrafts and engaged with the staff. Rekha Rani, Commissioner of Handlooms and Textiles, accompanied Ella during the visits and also presented an overview of the State’s handloom development at her office. Ella is also scheduled to visit various handloom clusters. As an Advisor, she will work closely with the Government of Andhra Pradesh on strategies to expand market access, attract investment, support artisan led MSMEs, and introduce new programs focused on women’s empowerment in the sector.

Ella’s advisory will focus on the holistic development of the sector while preserving the rich heritage and identity of Andhra Pradesh’s handloom and handicrafts

traditions.