SHILLONG, SEPT 7: Union minister of textile Dr KS Rao said that his ministry is willing to provide unlimited funds to Meghalaya for the promotion of handloom and weaving industry in the state.
“There is no dearth of funds so far as the ministry is concerned,” Dr Rao said while speaking to reporters at the sideline of the foundation stone laying ceremony for National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), permanent campus at Umsawli under the New Shillong Township (NST) on Saturday
Dr Rao said, “We will do anything for Meghalaya and not a single day will be lost in attending to any proposals made by the state government.”
Dr Rao further informed that a new scheme under Revival, Reform and Restructuring (RRR) Package for Handloom Sector has already been introduced by the centre with the aim to waive off the overdue loans of primary weavers cooperatives, other weavers organizations and individual traditional weavers at the grass root level across the country including Meghalaya adding this would also provide access to subsidized institutional credit.
“We have so far paid a total amount of Rs 490 crores to the weavers to clear their outstanding dues across the country,” Dr Rao said while adding the centre has also sanctioned an amount to the tune of Rs 500 crores for same purpose besides upgrading their skills.
Dr Rao further informed steps have also been taken to ensure that the traditional designs are protected through documentation which is already in the process by the ministry besides facilitating the weavers in marketing their products.
Earlier, addressing the function, Dr Rao said, “Fashion technology has got bright prospect not only in term of earnings but now it has been realize globally making everyone accessible everywhere,” adding “With this sense in mind, the NIFT has been set up as centre to guide and develop that sense in NE which is not lacking behind than those in the mainland India.”
Stating that fashion is no longer common only for rich and well to do, Dr Rao said, “This has change, now even the poorest of the poorest are interested in fashion.” He said the importance of fashion technology is that it has gone beyond the limits as people from every walk of life are into it which is a positive indicator of ample opportunities in the weaving sector.
Dr Rao also informed that the government has taken the initiative to promote weaving sector making the people aware about the various benefits that they will be able to grab from such industries.
Earlier, Dr Rao interacted with the students of the NIFT to get more idea on their mindset, potentiality and passion of the people when it comes to this particular sector.
“Determination is what matters when it come to any profession,” Dr Rao said adding “Studying in the NIFT is not all about getting a degree but to bring creativity that will promote the economic growth and development through this sector.”
Meghalaya chief minister Mukul Sangma had earlier briefed Dr Rao on the job opportunities for the educated unemployed youths in the villages in the state in the field of sericulture, weaving and apparels.
According to Sangma , under the new flagship program of the state government, the Integrated Basin Development and Livelihood Programs, the government aims at partnering with farmers to improve the conditions of the weavers.-By Our Reporter
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