South Zone Consultation Workshop on New Textile Schemes held

The Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, organized the Regional (South Zone) Consultation Workshop on New Textile Schemes (Budget Announcements 2026-27) at Bengaluru on 21.04.2026.

Addressing the gathering, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles emphasized that the textile sector is poised to play a pivotal role in achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047.

Dr. M. Beena, IAS, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), highlighted that the schemes announced in the Union Budget 2026-27 are designed to provide integrated support to the textile sector and will significantly benefit artisans, weavers, and other stakeholders.

Smt. Padmini Singla, IAS, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, addressed queries and provided clarifications during the consultation with State departments on the new schemes.

Smt. Arti Kanwar, IAS, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, elaborated on key incentives and policy support measures, including subsidies for modernization and promotion of indigenous machinery manufacturing.

khilesh Kumar, Deputy Director General, Ministry of Textiles, highlighted that Samarth 2.0 focuses on skill empowerment through multiple approaches, including introduction of traditional and industry-relevant courses, use of mobile-based technologies, creation of a pool of trained workforce, and provision of dual certifications to support academic and career progression.

Shri P. Sivakumar, IFS, Member Secretary, Central Silk Board, underscored that all initiatives should remain stakeholder-centric and aligned with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of “Farm to Foreign”, ensuring holistic development of the sector. (UPDATED ON 21ST APRIL 2026