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Kanchipuram weavers seek bailout package
08 Jul '09
2 min read
To bailout from the adverse effects of the free trade and globalization since 2004, the badly affected Kanchipuram weavers, well known for their silk saris have demanded a rescue package from the government along with a waiver of loans.
In this regard, more than hundred weavers pleaded before the local MP, P. Vishwanathan to take their grievances to the Union Textile Minister Mr. Dayanidhi Maran.
In a recent meeting, these weavers suggested of setting up of a comprehensive and well-equipped textile complex in the weaving cluster of Kanchipuram, where inputs like raw silk dye stuff, zari and essential weaving equipments should be made available.
They further said that the assistance from the Centre's Textiles Development Corporation should be directed through the societies which have duly elected members.
But according to experts, inputs like raw silk and zari are not freely available, due to which, the productivity and earnings of the weavers is affecting drastically and pushing the weavers into debt.
For the recovery of this debt, houses of weavers who have mortgaged them are being brought under auction. The weavers sought waiver of loans secured from Central Cooperative Banks.
The increasing cost of silver is the key reason for the hike in cost of Zari, said the weavers, who further demanded that the government should mull over providing silver at reasonable prices for zari manufacturing.
They also sought to redesign the health insurance schemes for weavers, which currently is being handled by banks, as they alleged that the scheme is not beneficial for them.
Also they alleged that the Textile City Infrastructure Improvement Funds for weaver areas were spent worthlessly on the things that were not for the improvement of weavers.
They also want specific educational institutions for their children with technical courses as well as free technical training camps for their up-gradation.
The numbers of weavers and handlooms have plunged by half as the weavers are diversifying into other occupations.
In this regard, more than hundred weavers pleaded before the local MP, P. Vishwanathan to take their grievances to the Union Textile Minister Mr. Dayanidhi Maran.
In a recent meeting, these weavers suggested of setting up of a comprehensive and well-equipped textile complex in the weaving cluster of Kanchipuram, where inputs like raw silk dye stuff, zari and essential weaving equipments should be made available.
They further said that the assistance from the Centre's Textiles Development Corporation should be directed through the societies which have duly elected members.
But according to experts, inputs like raw silk and zari are not freely available, due to which, the productivity and earnings of the weavers is affecting drastically and pushing the weavers into debt.
For the recovery of this debt, houses of weavers who have mortgaged them are being brought under auction. The weavers sought waiver of loans secured from Central Cooperative Banks.
The increasing cost of silver is the key reason for the hike in cost of Zari, said the weavers, who further demanded that the government should mull over providing silver at reasonable prices for zari manufacturing.
They also sought to redesign the health insurance schemes for weavers, which currently is being handled by banks, as they alleged that the scheme is not beneficial for them.
Also they alleged that the Textile City Infrastructure Improvement Funds for weaver areas were spent worthlessly on the things that were not for the improvement of weavers.
They also want specific educational institutions for their children with technical courses as well as free technical training camps for their up-gradation.
The numbers of weavers and handlooms have plunged by half as the weavers are diversifying into other occupations.
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