Union Textiles Minister Santosh Kumar Gangwar was in Tripura recently to lay the foundation stone of an apparel and garments making centre to develop the northeast as an apparel manufacturing and textile designing hub.
The Central Government has initiated the process of setting up readymade garments� manufacturing centers in all the eight states under the textile ministry.
“Our Prime Minister has expressed his belief that development of the country is not possible without development in the Northeast region. The northeastern states have their unique culture and legacy. They have their distinct identity. And, if we don’t work towards taking forward this legacy, then the country’s development is not possible. Our ministry has also been directed to work accordingly. We have seen that every northeastern state has a special place for handicraft and these products are appreciated not only within the country but outside as well,” said Gangwar.
The centers that will be developed at a cost of over Rs. 18 crores each will help provide develop skills and provide employment to many locals.
“As per estimate, about 3000 people are expected to benefit from this. There are 300 machines. It is not permanently allocated to anybody, but whichever entrepreneur wants, they can come and work on the machines. We will also provide 3 months’ training program for the people who want to learn and upgrade their skilling. So, we run a three month course with help from textile ministry. This will be good for all the entrepreneurs who want to experiment because they don’t need to buy any permanent equipment,” said Handloom and Handicraft Secretary K. Nagaraju.
Gangwar also laid the foundation stone of a silk processing and printing unit in Tripura to boost silk production.
“We can hardly print only 20 to 25 silk saris by blocks and screen per month with the existing infrastructure. Remaining printing was done totally from Kolkata. But now, if the modern printing comes up here then we can do the total printing in Tripura. It will be convenient for everyone,” said B Chanda who is in charge of silk printing centre.
“Besides helping in preserving the handloom legacy of the region and boosting production, these centers will be a major encouragement for young entrepreneurs and generate employment for many people, especially women,” he added.
The government is also keen to set up textile parks in the region.
The Northeastern region has a distinct legacy of handloom and handicraft work and a large number of people here are engaged in producing a variety of products.
Gangwar had earlier laid the foundation stones for similar projects in Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. (ANI)