New Delhi: The Ministry of Textiles launches seven projects in partnership with the EU, backed by a $9.97 million grant, aimed at empowering approximately 200,000 women and supporting thousands of MSMEs and artisans over the next five years to foster sustainable development in India’s textile industry.
The Ministry of Textiles (MoT) of India, in collaboration with the European Union (EU), has unveiled seven new projects aimed at revitalising the country’s textile and handicraft sector. Announced recently, these initiatives are supported by a substantial grant of US $ 9.97 million (approximately Rs. 85.5 crore) from the EU. Designed to foster sustainable development, resource efficiency, and inclusive growth, the projects are projected to bolster livelihoods and enhance the economic status of women in the textile industry.
The implementation of these seven projects over the next three to five years is expected to deliver direct benefits to around 35,000 individuals. This includes support to 15,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), 5,000 traditional artisans, and 15,000 farmer-producers across nine Indian states: Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Haryana. The initiatives are anticipated to economically empower an estimated 200,000 women, many of whom will also benefit secondary industries and communities in the vicinity.
The projects will be executed through a partnership involving a mix of public and private sector organisations, aiming to not only preserve the rich heritage of Indian textile culture but also to enhance economic independence through improved market connections, competitiveness, and innovation.
Franck Viault, the Minister Counsellor and Head of Cooperation of the EU Delegation to India, commented on the initiative, highlighting the challenges posed by the fast fashion industry. He stated, “Though fast fashion is the dominant trend worldwide, both the EU and India have been working hard to make the textile sector more sustainable.” He further emphasized India’s renowned textile tradition and the EU’s commitment to supporting India’s circular economy objectives, sharing best practices and promoting environmentally friendly approaches within this vital sector.
The organisations tasked with the practical implementation of the projects include Humana People to People India, Deutsche Welthungerhilfe EV, Stiftelsen Varldsnaturfonden WWF, Professional Assistance for Development Action, Network for Enterprise Enhancement and Development Support, Foundation for MSME Clusters, and Intellecap Advisory Services Pvt. Ltd.
These initiatives will focus on enhancing production, branding, and market access for various products, including the development and marketing of natural dyes, bamboo crafts, handlooms, shawls, and an array of traditional handicrafts and textiles, aiming to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous textile ecosystem in India.
Source: Noah Wire Services
