(a) the salient features of the newly launched ‘Cluster Development Scheme’ for handlooms;
(b) the amount allocated/earmarked for the development of clusters in various States for 2007-08, State-wise and Union Territory-wise;
(c) the clusters identified in the State of Tamil Nadu which has vast majority of handlooms in the country;
(d) whether the Union Government proposes to select more handloom clusters in the State of Tamil Nadu; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES (SHRI E.V.K.S. ELANGOVAN)
(a): The Integrated Handloom Clusters Developing Scheme aims developing Handloom Clusters in an inclusive,
holistic, sustainable and self reliant manner; facilitating collectivization of handloom weavers and service
providers; inculcating common infrastructure usage and services in a viable format; creating an environment of
empowered and participative decision among cluster actors/weavers; and encouraging convergence of schematic
assistance and support services from various schemes and programmes of Government. The scheme will ensure synergized
and consistent support to handloom weavers in the country.
(b): The Integrated Handloom Cluster Development Scheme is a Central Sector Scheme introduced during the year
2005-06. An amount of Rs.30.00 crore has been earmarked during he year 2007-08 for allocation on the development
of handloom clusters through out the country including Tamil Nadu. No state-wise allocation has been made under
the scheme. The scheme is being implemented through identified Implementing Agencies.
(c) to (e): During 2005-06, 03 clusters have been identified for development in the State of Tamil Nadu such as
Thiruvannamalai, Trichy and Kurinjipadi, out of 20 clusters. Furthermore, 100 Clusters, have been selected in
2006-07 in consultation with the State Governments and Wavers’ Service Centres concerned, out of which 10 clusters
have been identified for development in the State of Tamil Nadu. Currently, diagnostic study of these clusters is
in progress. Based on diagnostic studies, cluster development plan will be prepared.