Question : EFFECT OF OPEN TRADE REGIIME ON CARPET INDUSTRY

(a) whether introduction of open trade regime has adversely affected the carpet industry of the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the measures being taken by the Government to protect this industry;

(c) whether the Government are considering to make use of indigenously manufactured carpets mandatory in the ITDC hotels, Government offices, trade centres etc. and

(d) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR TEXTILES (SHRI V. DHANANJAYA KUMAR)

(a) & (b): The open trade regime came into force recently on 1st April, 2001, hence, it is premature to judge its impact on the Indian Carpet Industry.

(c): No, Sir.

(d): It is estimated that of the total indigenously manufactured hand-knotted carpets, nearly 90% are exported. Government is focussing on increasing exports.