Tamil Nadu to raise handloom weaver wages, establish knitwear board

Tamil Nadu's handlooms sector is set for a boost with the government's decision to increase wages and dearness allowance by 10 per cent for handloom weavers, Minister for Handlooms, Textiles and Khadi M. Vijay Balaji announced in the state assembly.

The announcement comes as part of broader efforts to strengthen the state's traditional textile industry, which has long been a cornerstone of Tamil Nadu's economy and a source of livelihood for thousands of artisans.

In addition to the wage hike, the government will establish the Tamil Nadu Knitwear Board to promote and develop the knitwear segment. This move is expected to provide better support and coordination for knitwear manufacturers and exporters across the state.

Furthering the push to enhance export capabilities, a Silk Export Trade Facilitation Centre will be set up at the Perarignar Anna Handloom Silk Park in Kancheepuram, a major hub for silk production. The centre is intended to streamline export procedures and boost the state's silk trade globally.

These initiatives reflect the government's commitment to improving working conditions for weavers while simultaneously strengthening Tamil Nadu's competitive position in the national and international textile markets.