Sat Mar 29 06:49:49 UTC 2025: **Tamil Nadu to Boost Handloom Industry with New Initiatives**
CHENNAI, March 29, 2025 – The Tamil Nadu government is launching a multi-pronged initiative to revitalize the state’s handloom sector, announced Handlooms and Textiles Minister R. Gandhi on Friday. Key features of the plan include a new “Franchise Model Showrooms” scheme to expand the reach of Co-Optex products both domestically and internationally, a website upgrade for Co-Optex with a ₹20 lakh investment, and the introduction of 5,000 wrinkle-free shirts.
The minister also detailed a ₹50 lakh annual sales incentive program for Co-Optex showroom staff, the installation of an XRF Zari Analyser at the Kancheepuram Zari Factory (costing ₹25 lakh), and the organization of five handloom expos at a cost of ₹1.50 crore. Furthermore, the Best Designer Award prize money has been significantly increased, and the eligibility criteria for the Handloom Weaver Savings and Security Scheme pension have been relaxed. Additional investments will fund the construction of Loom Work Sheds and the provision of modernized sewing machines for cooperative societies. These measures aim to improve employment opportunities for weavers, increase sales, and enhance the quality and marketability of Tamil Nadu’s handloom products.
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