Government announces 100% subsidy for construction of work-shed to SC weavers

New Delhi, Apr 17 (KNN) The government has decided to provide 100% subsidy to SC weavers for the contruction of work-sheds.

Emphasizing that the textile ministry is making special efforts for the welfare of about 20 lakh SC citizens working in handicraft, handloom and sericulture sectors, Union Minister for textile, Smriti Irani recently spoke about the launch of PowerTex India under which 75% subsidy is being given to SC beneficiaries for the upgradation of powerlooms.

She also announced 75% subsidy in fees for school education via NIOS and university education via IGNOU for the children of SC weavers and artisans.

The announcements were made during an event on 14^th April on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R Ambedkar.

Also an MoU was signed on the occasion between Development commissioner (Handlooms) under the Ministry of Textiles and National Castes Finance and Development Corporation under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. The objective of signing this MoU is to help Scheduled Caste weavers and their families by promoting production and marketing of high value quality Handlooms products at Block level Cluster in various States like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Odisha etc.. Irani said that the signing of MoU is a great example of collaboration within the Government.

During the event, the Minister distributed benefits under welfare schemes of the Ministry, to beneficiaries belonging to Scheduled Castes from various parts of the country. The Minister also interacted with handloom weavers, handicraft artisans, silk reelers and skill development trainees at various locations in five states via video conferencing, apart from the beneficiaries who were present at the function in Delhi.