As elections near, livelihoods have taken centre stage in Kerala's Kasaragod, where a 300-year-old handloom tradition known for its GI-tagged sarees is struggling to survive. Weavers say despite repeated promises, there has been little support on the ground, pushing the craft towards decline. Experts believe a ₹2 crore financial boost could help revive the sector, but for now, artisans remain uncertain about their future.