Multiple Schemes Rolled Out For Powerloom Sector Development, Says MoS Textiles

New Delhi, Feb 6 (KNN) The Government has undertaken several initiatives to support the holistic development of the powerloom sector across the country, including key clusters in Bhiwandi, Ichalkaranji and Malegaon.

In written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, the Minister of State for Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, outlined the measures aimed at improving infrastructure, technology adoption, skill development and competitiveness in the powerloom industry.

Under the Comprehensive Powerloom Cluster Development Scheme (CPCDS), financial assistance of up to Rs 50 crore was provided for each approved Powerloom Mega Cluster to facilitate the holistic development of existing clusters.

The scheme has since been subsumed under the Textile Cluster Development Scheme (TCDS), with support now limited to meeting committed liabilities of ongoing projects. The Ichalkaranji Powerloom Mega Cluster, sanctioned in 2012, has received Rs 44.85 crore from the Government of India under this initiative.

The PowerTex India Scheme, launched with an outlay of Rs 487 crore for the period 2017–20 and extended up to 2021, was aimed at enhancing the capacity and competitiveness of the decentralised powerloom sector nationwide.

This scheme has been subsumed under TCDS, with funding restricted to committed liabilities. 

The Minister said that Textile Cluster Development Scheme also supports Integrated Textile and Apparel Development Centres (ITADCs), earlier known as Powerloom Service Centres, operated by Textile Research Associations and State Governments.

(KNN Bureau)