Textiles Minister Mr. Dayanidhi Maran asked states to accelerate the implementation process of central welfare schemes for 6.5 million handloom weavers in the country after admitting a delay took place in this execution. Five schemes are being implemented by the Centre during the 11th Five Year Plan, for the development and welfare of handloom weavers throughout the country, he informed.
The Minister further added that the state governments should also come out with their own welfare measures for handloom weavers. According to the Joint Census of Handloom and Power-loom Report for 1995-96, there were around 65,51,354 workers associated with weaving and allied activities, out of which 23,22,268 handloom weavers from Assam stood at the top.
Funds released through four schemes of the centre are almost fully consumed for weavers' welfare, informed Mr. Maran.
Fibre2fashion News Desk - India