16 January 2023, Mumbai
Karnataka will establish 25 mini-textile parks in the state, which have a larger concentration of weavers’ population. The mini textile parks will help weavers process cotton and manufacture readymade garments. The state has already launched a direct benefit transfer for handloom and powerloom weavers and workers under the Nekar Sanman scheme.
Weavers will be helped to focus on the quality of their products. They will be given export assistance. Steps are being taken to reach an agreement with Amazon, Flipkart and other online platforms. Karnataka aims at upgrading the weaver community. The state is making efforts to get international branding for weavers’ products as it will help in increasing productivity and improving the economy.
Karnataka is the biggest exporter of textiles in the country and the Ilkat saree is famous across the country. The state has increased the subsidy given to professional weavers from 30 per cent to 50 per cent. An occupancy certificate will be issued to those residing in Weavers’ Colony. Considering weaving at home a cottage industry, concession will be given from the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board. Weaving products will be brought under the education department’s Vidya Vikas scheme. From the next academic year, the education department will place orders for supplying the cloth required to stitch uniforms for school children.