(a) whether the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has introduced any scheme for enhancing productivity and competitiveness of khadi products and artisans;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the number of institutions/artisans benefitted under the scheme;
(c) whether it is proposed to expand the scheme further; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SHRI GIRIRAJ SINGH)
(a)&(b): Scheme for enhancing productivity and competitiveness of khadi products and artisans was being implemented by Khadi and Village Industries Commission(KVIC) till 2013-14 with the objective to make Khadi industry more competitive, market-oriented, profitable and for providing sustained employment for Khadi artisans by replacement of obsolete and old machinery and equipment and repairs to/renovation of existing/operational machinery and equipment. Under the scheme, financial assistance was provided for replacement of charkha and looms, service centres /warping units, ready to use warp for weaving, testing etc., Product Development, design intervention & packaging, Market promotion assistances and capacity building, techno-managerial support, documentation etc. 54 institutions benefitted under this scheme upto 2013-14.
(c)&(d): Scheme for enhancing productivity and competitiveness of khadi products and artisans has been merged with the revamped Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) with effect from 2014-15. Activities with the objective of enhancing productivity and competitiveness in the khadi sector are also undertaken under the Khadi Reform and Development Programme(KRDP).