Handlooms constitute a timeless facet of the rich cultural heritage of India. Tradition of weaving by hand is a part of the country's cultural ethos.
The strength of Handloom lies in introducing innovative design, which cannot be replicated by the Powerloom Sector. As an economic activity, the handloom sector occupies a place second only to agriculture in providing livelihood to the people.
A number of schemes are being implemented for promotion and development of handloom sector.
However, keeping in view the growing competitiveness in the textile industry both in the national and international markets and the free trade opportunities emerging in post MFA environment and with a view to develop a strong, competitive and vibrant handloom sector for providing sustainable employment for economic development of the nation, following schemes were introduced in the handloom sector during the year 2005-06:-
- Integrated Handloom Cluster Development Scheme
- Health Insurance Scheme
- Mahatama Gandhi Bunkar Bima Yojana
During the Budget speech 2006-07, the Finance Minister has announced that yarn depots will be established in different parts of the country to ensure uninterrupted supply of yarn to weavers.
A 'handloom' mark will be launched for brand development. A scheme similar to TUFS will be introduced for the handloom sector to provide interest subsidy on term loans.
Government has launched Technology Up-gradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) for Textile & Jute Industries including Powerloom Sector in order to facilitate modernization of textile industry.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Textiles Shri E.V.K.S.Elangovan in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.
Press Information Bureau Government of India
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