(a) whether the Union Government proposes to set up Indian Institute of Handloom and Textiles in different parts of the country; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and the criteria for setting up such institution and locations where they are likely to be set up?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES (SHRI SANTOSH KUMAR GANGWAR)
(a) & (b): Presently, five Indian Institutes of Handloom Technology (IIHTs) are functioning across the country at Guwahati (Assam), Jodhpur (Rajasthan), Salem (Tamil Nadu), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) and Bargarh (Odisha) under the Central Sector. Further, Indian Institute of Handloom Technology at Shantipur-Nadia in West Bengal under the Central Sector has been sanctioned. Besides, four Indian Institutes of Handloom Technology are also functioning at Venkatagiri (Andhra Pradesh), Gadag-Betagiri (Karnataka), Champa (Chhattisgarh) and Kannur (Kerela) under the State Sector.
Criteria for setting up of an IIHT at particular location includes concentration of handloom weavers, need of trained and qualified manpower for handloom industry, willingness of the State Government to provide land and accommodation at free of cost, availability of funds, sanction of the posts etc.