The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi, has emphasised the need for technological upgradation in the handloom and powerloom sectors in order to face the challenges of the competitive world. Human Resource Development (HRD) is another area which needs immediate attention. Besides providing adequate financial incentives to artisans, weavers and craftsmen, the new generation should be provided financial assistance to enable them to continue with the profession.
Addressing a large gathering at Varanasi which included a number of weavers, craftsmen and artisans, among others, Mr. Modi observed that textile sector is the second largest employer in the country after agriculture sector. Weavers, craftsmen and artisans not only weave a variety of threads in a specific design but also help in unifying the different sections of society in this sector that employs people from all sections, irrespective of caste, creed and religion. Every profession has to keep pace with the changing trends and requirements. The same is true with the handloom and powerloom sectors as well. They also need to change and develop according to the changing demands of the day.
He said the two sectors therefore have to focus on technology upgradation, marketing strategies, and creation of new designs and products to meet the growing requirements. Further, the sector has to make the best use of the e-commerce and e-business facilities available.
According to him, there is already a big market for Banarasi handloom and handicrafts products. However, the challenge is to make them reach every household across the country and the world at large. All this requires adequate financing of the sectors.
Referring to the need for the growth and development of the eastern part of the country, he pointed out that the Centre recently allocated Rs. 2,375 crores as revival package for district co-operative banks, 16 of which are in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. This would ensure easy availability of credit to the lower and middle class, and help revive the handloom and powerloom sectors, he added.
Earlier, the Prime Minister laid the foundation for a Trade Facilitation Centre (TFC) and a crafts museum and also inaugurated a powerloom service centre at the CPWD Complex, Bada Lalpur in Varanasi.
In his welcome address, Mr. Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Union Minister of State for Textiles, said that proposed TFC and the crafts museum would be set up in an area of 8 acres at Rs. 50 crores. However, the total cost of the project would be around Rs. 147 crores with scope for expansion in future.
He said once that funds won’t be a hindrance since the Centre has already approved the setting up of 13 textile parks with financial assistance of Rs. 40 crores per park from the Ministry. Another 15 more such textile parks would also be set up in the country under next Five-Year Plan, he added.
Mr. Sanjay Panda, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, proposed a vote of thanks.