Despite the global economic slowdown, the country's export of handloom products may increase by 30-35 per cent this fiscal, according to Panabaka Lakshmi, Minister of State for Textiles, Petroleum and Natural Gas.
Last fiscal, handloom exports touched $156 million, she said at a panel discussion on ‘Boosting Market Linkages in the Handloom Sector’, organised by the Assocham Ladies League here today.
“Foreign buyers get attracted to the traditional designs and vibrant colours of the fabrics. This is something weavers should capitalise on,” the Minister pointed out.
She said India had nearly 27.83 lakh handloom households, out of which 87 per cent was located in the rural areas. This sector accounted for a share of 19 per cent of the total cloth produced in the country. Handloom is the second largest employment provider after agriculture, generating employment for more than 65 lakh weavers and workers.
Financial support
She said the Centre was willing to provide financial support to states that were prepared to set up common facility centres at handloom clusters. These centres would also provide a marketing platform for the weavers and help them get better prices for their products.
Currently, India had about 612 handloom clusters, out of which 53 are located in Andhra Pradesh.
“We have received proposals from some states, which we are considering,” she said.
e-marketing platforms
The Government was also encouraging development of various e-marketing platforms on the lines set up by the Central Cottage Industries Corporation and the Handicrafts and Handlooms Export Corporation. The Assocham Ladies League, Hyderabad Chapter, proposed a handloom industry revival plan through creation of market linkages, sustainable platforms for showcasing of products, spreading awareness on Government policies and certification of the authenticity of the handloom products, said Suman Gahlot, General Manager of Taj Deccan and its chairperson.
amitmitra@thehindu.co.in