Question : KHADI AND VILLAGE INDUSTRIES

(a) whether the Government proposes to introduce affordable technologies and facilities for the holistic development and promotion of Khadi and Village Industries in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Rural Industrialisation (MGIRI) undertakes research, design and extension activities for the rural industrial sector;

(d) if so, the details of the new technologies finalised by the said institute during the Eleventh Five Year Plan period; and

(e) the details of such new technologies transferred to rural industrial sector during the said period?

MINISTER OF MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SHRI KALRAJ MISHRA)

(a)&(b): Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) undertakes various steps to introduce affordable technologies and facilities for the holistic development and promotion of khadi and village industries (KVI) which include (i) establishment of design centre for khadi/textile garments, (ii) introduction of technology for efficient and scientific harvesting of honey, (iii) popularization of solar charkha,(iv) soft and stiff finish technology, (v) technology for bamboo based handicrafts, (vi) technology package for value added product using local wool or blend of local and imported merino wool, etc.

KVIC also implements a specific programme for cluster development, Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI), under which assistance for replacement of obsolete equipments, setting up common facilities centres, product development, market promotion and other support are provided.

(c) Yes, Madam.

(d) A number of new technologies have been developed/demonstrated by MGIRI for rural industries during the Eleventh Five Year Plan. A list of some of the technologies developed/ demonstrated by MGIRI during the Eleventh Five Year Plan is given at Annex I.

(e) A number of new technologies in the rural industries sector have been taken up for transfer during the Eleventh Five Year Plan through workshops, trainings, field trials, demonstrations at exhibitions, etc. A list of some of the technologies taken up for transfer during the Eleventh Five Year Plan is given at Annex II.