Lucknow, April 9 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, emphasized on Thursday that the income, dignity, and long-term sustainability of weavers are critical priorities for the state government, highlighting the necessity for a coordinated strategy to tackle the challenges faced by this vital sector.

While leading a review session for the Handloom Department, Adityanath remarked, "Weavers are not merely transmitters of heritage but also a fundamental component of the state’s economy. Hence, ensuring their income, dignity, and stability in their livelihoods is a paramount concern for the government."

He acknowledged the various difficulties currently being encountered by weavers, including the escalating costs of raw materials, a deficiency in modern design and technology, and restricted market access.

"These issues cannot be addressed solely through existing schemes. A strong, results-driven, and cluster-oriented framework must be established," he asserted, instructing officials to devise a practical action plan centered on cluster development.

During the session, it was revealed that approximately 1.99 lakh weavers are active in the sector within Uttar Pradesh, which ranks sixth in the country.

The state excels in producing carpets, durries, and mats, and also maintains a robust presence in bedsheets, furnishings, and blankets.

In the fiscal year 2024-25, India’s overall handloom exports reached Rs 1,178.93 crore, with Uttar Pradesh contributing Rs 109.40 crore, which represents around 9.27 percent.

Adityanath stressed the importance of pinpointing regions dominated by weavers and developing clusters that encompass production, quality assurance, and marketing. He proposed that these clusters adopt a value chain model, extending beyond mere production to include design, branding, packaging, and market accessibility.

The meeting also focused on the selection of clusters, conducting baseline surveys, and preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) along with implementation and monitoring strategies. The Chief Minister proposed organizing a limited number of weavers into registered units within each cluster to promote collective production and marketing, while also integrating them with modern technology, advanced tools, and skill enhancement programs.

By underscoring the significance of design and market alignment, Yogi Adityanath called for the effective execution of mechanisms like designer-cum-marketing executives and design houses or export agencies to improve product quality and broaden market outreach.

He also advocated for increased utilization of digital platforms, e-commerce, and branding initiatives to directly connect weavers with consumers.

In addressing the concerns of powerloom weavers, the Chief Minister directed the Handloom Department and Power Corporation to collaboratively formulate an action plan to lower electricity costs. He further highlighted the promotion of solar energy as a sustainable approach to minimize power expenses and deliver long-term relief.

Reiterating the significance of the weaving community, he stated that a balanced, transparent, and practical policy is essential to provide genuine relief, rejuvenate the sector, and reinforce the foundation of traditional weaving in Uttar Pradesh.

The meeting was attended by the Minister of MSME, Khadi and Village Industries, Silk Industry, Handloom and Textile, Rakesh Sachan.